THE EDITOR, Sir:
THE JUDGMENT rendered by Mr. Justice Sykes last week over the NRCA-granted permit to build the massive hotel development at Pear Tree Bottom has raised many controversies. This is regrettable.
We can understand the disappointment of the investors, of Mrs. Pat Francis, who it is said piloted the project, and must be aware of the possible repercussions that it may cause for future developers.
What is even more regrettable is that this debacle happened.
PERMITS
If we had all our affairs in order, it would never have happened. We should have, as a country, a development plan established, where we have determined what we want and where we want it. Maybe then, it would not have taken two years to obtain the necessary permits, and there would not have been the controversy it has generated causing the people to take this issue to court.
If we had such a plan, where the areas of development are clearly established as desired, then any developer, local or foreigner, would have a clear frame of reference,
and surely a shorter time needed to obtain the necessary permits.
To call the environmentalists traitors or imply that they do not have the good of Jamaica at heart is absurd. They are the true patriots, who defend the good of Jamaica, not only for today, but also for tomorrow, and the day after.
What we need is sustainable development, so that we do not have a tourist industry that kills the very good on which it is built.
We must put together all the talent and professional knowledge that is here, to prepare such a plan - and this as a matter of urgency.
I am, etc.,
LOUISE MCLEOD
lmcl@kasnet.com
