THE EDITOR, Sir:
IN RESPONSE to the concern about the deterioration of the Holland Bamboo grove in St. Elizabeth, I agree with the call for the restoration of the attraction which was battered by Hurricane Ivan in September, 2004. Over the years people have set fire to the bamboos whenever they had unresolved public issues.
My humble advice is that the support of the politicians is vital to any restoration of the grove. If the politicians are involved, the local people will be interested in the restoration and will not allow animals to feed on the bamboos.
Some outstanding individual who commands the respect of all the parties could convene meetings with them and impress upon them that the restoration of the grove is in the interest of everyone, including the local people who sell refreshment by the roadside. The politicians' support for restoration of the grove should be sought and their active involvement in subsequent public education campaigns enlisted.
The people who live in the
districts surrounding the grove must be employed during the replanting and some should be retained as part of the maintenance team. It is likely that they would contribute to the prevention of any future destruction of the young plants as they would zealously scare vandals and cows in order to preserve their handiwork. They would also be proud to identify themselves with the restoration of the grove and would be more likely to welcome the tourists who stop in the grove to enjoy the cool shade or the picturesque scene.
I am, etc.,
BERNAL NEIL
Watchwell P.O.
St. Elizabeth
