The Editor, Sir:

I am still wondering why there is need for a protracted debate regarding bauxite mining in the Cockpit Country since the wilderness region is such a vital ecosystem and clearly provides the sources of one of the necessities of life - water. We expect the authorities to be protecting this area and our heritage instead of being engaged in a tug-of-war with citizens who have already recognised the need for its preservation.

Dr. Paris Lyew-Ayee's attempt to obfuscate the issues has only succeeded in buttressing the resolve of those enlightened enough to support the fight for the preservation of these hinterlands.

Whenever this region, or any portion of it, suffers the indignity and rapacious nature of bauxite mining, whether now or 20 years hence, the name Jamaica will become a misnomer. We will just have to find a new name for our country, one that means, "The land of neither wood nor water."

I am, etc.,

KADENE PORTER

kadene26@hotmail.com

Woodland Hills, Calif.