The Editor, Sir:The departure of the PNP's Power House has left a void in that party, and undoubtedly will cause a delay, or if not, a rethinking of the time in which to call the next general election.
This is a golden opportunity for both parties to temporarily veer off the campaign trail and address some serious issues that are fundamental to the survival of this nation.
There has to be constitutional reform sooner rather than later. The separation of powers debate must be restarted and concluded forthwith. It is obvious that Jamaica has short-changed itself by appointing only members of the legislature to ministerial positions. While I agree that to the victor goes the spoils, the brightest, and most experienced Jamaicans are not afforded an opportunity to participate in a meaningful way in the governing of the country. We have to discard, and shed, what has shackled us heretofore. Why can't we do what is best for the country? What prevents us as a civilized nation, from having a competent Cabinet that reflects the views of all Jamaica?
No safety net
Further, Members of Parliament must be allowed to spend more time representing their constituencies, and should be provided with adequate resources to do so. Recognising that for the most part there is no safety net for the poor, MP's must be the buffer between their constituents, and the limited social services available. The salary currently paid to parliamentarians is woefully inadequate. The decision to serve in either chamber is a personal financial burden, and therefore a deterrent to those who would otherwise be able to contribute at this level.
Parliament must not be a semi-retirement vehicle for those who are well off, or those who have made it in the private sector. Inherent in any attempt to encourage others who would not normally be attracted to politics is the dismantling of the garrison communities. These communities serve no nation- building purpose, and are the brainchild of politicians intent on feeding from the trough indefinitely.
Status quo
Term limitations are also an idea whose time has come. It is almost impossible to remove a sitting MP, and nobody would agree that the nation benefits from the current system, where the status quo is preserved at all costs.
Finally, the Senate must be expanded to include those living overseas. There has been talk, and even consensus. Where is the action? The Jamaicans in the Diaspora have made it clear that they are more than just a source of remittance. They too would like to participate in nation building.
Madam Prime Minister, and the Leader of the Opposition, kindly use this time wisely. The nation is haemorrhaging; there is no need to follow in the footsteps of your predecessors. We have paid the price for a lack of vision, it can't and never will be the Jamaica that you and I grew up in. Rather than make promises, make changes, lead by example.
I am, etc.,
KIRK BARROW
Kabarrow @hotmail.com
1 D Braemar Ave
Kingston 10
Via Go-Jamaica
