Letter of the Day - Gov't by trial and error
published: Thursday | February 3, 2005

THE EDITOR, Sir: THE GOVERNMENT'S latest move to increase the minimum wage has caused me to become very concerned about the quality of governance in Jamaica. I am now wondering if the Government habitually or even occasionally acts on impulse or whether their practice is to research and analyse what the best policies are to take the country forward.

When the Government announced its decision to increase the minimum wage it was clear that the issue was not given all the necessary consideration it deserved, so that all the other concomitant factors could also be considered.

First they overlooked the effects on the income tax threshold. The Government then made a public announcement that the income tax threshold will be increased. Then, after realising that this would cause significant loss in revenue to the government, they then announced that the threshold will not be increased.

It is very unfortunate to see the Government implementing public policy in such a manner. This shows a clear lack of planning and analysis. The country cannot be allowed to run on a trail and error basis. Policies must be thoroughly analysed and researched to ensure that all factors are taken into consideration.

I am, etc.,

KEMMEHI LOZER

Kingston 20