THE EDITOR, Sir:
THE HURRICANE season is upon us. Arlene is already through the gate, and it is widely acknowledged that the principal factor which contributed to 'Ivan' being a natural disaster, instead of a monumental disaster, was the level of preparedness which the nation achieved.
Already, expectations as to what the Private Sector Organisation of Jamaica (PSOJ) will be doing, in a meaningful way, as a follow-up to the Emancipation Park's initiative, are very high. May I be so bold as to offer a suggestion which I received from my good friend Everald Webley they could ascertain what is the estimated budget to have the island adequately prepared to meet the hurricane season, for example, the cleaning of drains, provision of, and transportation to, shelters and the sensitisation of our traditionally optimistic citizens as to the need for each to play his/her part.
The PSOJ could then determine by what means they could provide assistance, for example, equipment, expertise, labour, etc., which would help reduce the overall budgetary expense. I wish to emphasise that I am not asking the PSOJ to contribute in cash, but rather in kind. Furthermore, this should be an effort involving both limbs of the Government, that is, Government and Opposition, all Members of Parliament and Councillors, in other words, a national effort, which would extend to all parishes. The savings made by their contribution could be used to employ a greater number of unemployed. Finding work for unemployed youth is one of the most fundamental imperatives if we are to begin to tackle the burgeoning epidemic of crime.
Finally, their members should be seen to be participating in this exercise (not silent partners within a boardroom) thereby demonstrating that this is one of the ways that the organisation is moving beyond 'Emancipation Park'.
I am, etc.,
HOWARD HAMILTON, Q.C.
