The Editor, Sir:

Jamaica is one of a few countries in the world which allow private citizens or foreign investors to own and fence off beaches, thus depriving local inhabitants access to the nearby coastline where they can go swimming.

In my recent travels through Costa Rica, Mexico and Puerto Rico, I had no problem finding a nice beach next to a fancy hotel where I could go swimming, even though I was not a guest at that hotel.

I remember when I was working at the Town Planning Department in Kingston, there was a standard restriction placed on development that no restriction would take place within a certain distance of the high watermark. This would designate an area of a certain width all around the island where there would be unrestricted access to the public.

We imagined a lovely promenade where everyone could stroll, swim or just relax.

Today, we have to search or pay to go on a good beach.

What has happened to Jamaica? Are our people discriminated against as far as access to beaches is concerned?

I trust someone will step forward and come to represent our people.

I am, etc.,

CALFORD SCOTT

Caldsc@aol.com

37 E 92nd St.

Brooklyn, N.Y.

Via Go-Jamaica