The Editor, Sir:

I am sure that the majority of Jamaicans agree with the Minister of Finance and Planning not to privatise Air Jamaica as the national airline. There are many reasons for this despite the three voices heard to the contrary - two local opinion makers and lastly, the IMF.

Some of the reasons are the fact that Jamaicans abroad and those of us who travel on these planes will vouch for the quality of service of the staff and that they are second to none in accommodation.

Secondly, to see the Love Birds perched at many airports with their outstanding emblem and colours, fully identifies and makes us Jamaicans very proud.

We are aware of the many short-falls economically. I wish to make some suggestions to stem them.

Rationalise the system by reducing the number of unproductive desti-nations to which the airline flies.

Rationalisation will make for better management and cost reduction.

Avoid leasing unneeded planes. This would also mean establishing linkages with other airlines to pull persons who wish to travel to Jamaica. Efficiency would be improved as well.

Two other things must be considered. The increase in budget allocations to ensure its survival, and the offering of shares to interested Jamaicans.

I am, etc.,

R.A. YOUNG

grupyoung@cwjamaica.com