The Editor, Sir:

The recent headline of one daily newspaper gave a headline on the action of the police namely 'Sick police are better.' The headline reflects a cynicism that raises some poignant issues.

Will doctors provide certificates for sick leave for those who suddenly fell sick and quickly got better after three days?

Police persons who are part of the emergency service which is not open to strike action. Sick-out by any form is nothing but strike. Hence it is a form of hypocrisy by any other name.

How can the many demands to which government is forced to accede be met without increase in taxation and or borrowing that must be repaid with interest?

Are we prepared?

If either is applied, are we prepared for the inflation which could wipe out the value of the increase? Or on the other hand, if Jamaica accedes to the IMF's suggestion and reduces the public sector work force to cut expenditure and increase the salaries of those retained, it may fuel the so-called brain drain. Does the IMF consider that the laid-off may be forced into poverty when we are urged to eliminate poverty?

We cannot avoid a brain drain because Jamaica can never ever absorb all its qualified and gifted people. There is also a positive side to this that must never be overlooked. Can those retained, even with an increased wage, cope with the volume of work? It is more feasible to suggest that we maintain a level salary structure in a sharing and caring mode and minimise the problems stated above.

I am, etc.,

R.A. YOUNG

grupyoung@cwjamaica.com

P.O. Box 1633

Kingston 8