The Editor, Sir:

For months now, there has been a longstanding attempt to attract salary increase. But, I believe that there is something more to be done in order to meet the objective set before the Government of Jamaica.

All working and non-working citizens have basic needs and daily expenses which must be met. They must purchase food to eat, use the transportation available to them, pay the cost for consuming water, electricity etc., and for some, to pay the rent for homes they occupy.

Jamaicans cannot live without these essential services and goods. Therefore, in relation to the teachers' salary, I am here suggesting that the teachers present a budget based on their daily needs (not wants) and use the modal average of such budgets to show the Government the actual situation faced by teachers rather than just asking for a raise. The teachers must be honest with the presentation of their budgets. Then the additional funds to be added can be claimed based on teachers' performance in their job. I strongly believe that this, in fact, can present a better argument.

I am, etc.,

RONIQUE BERNARD

hulkbernard@yahoo.com

1 1/4 Graham Heights

Kingston 8

Via Go-Jamaica