The Editor, Sir:

I can truly attest to the peace and tranquility of life in rural Stewart Town, Trelawny. Around me there are no signs of great economic wealth or affluence. What is quite evident and well cherished in our community are our historic and old culture, love of our neighbours, respect, goodwill and contentment among our fellow citizens. Our town's history, although not well preserved, can rival and exceed that of any other town in our wonderful parish.

Our community is unfortunately among those others on the 'blacklisted map of proposed development' in the Cockpit Country and any changes to our present geographic status quo must be seen as destructively-threatening and laden with uncertainties, even if it will bring economic improvement over what now exists.

Our reason for this fear is underpinned by the lack of factual information and any small change to our present lifestyle (even if it is just prospecting for bauxite as is being said) may symbolise bigger ones in the long term. Almost enough has been said about the impact of mining in Trelawny, how it will affect the underground water resources, the flora and the fauna. All the relevant spokespersons and environmentalists have made a national impact with their concerns and indignations and we thank them for their valiant and relentless efforts.

I am choosing to be parochial with my concerns by focusing on the apprehensions of my immediate community and my family. Nobody can deny that there are devastating health hazards to think about, especially in this peculiar area which is almost secluded in a valley under several hills and ridges. I am not impressed by any argument that in the 'long-run' there will be new and additional jobs available. Of great parochial concern too is the 'fauna of Westwood', the flora of the verdant pastures of Manchester Pen and the surrounding majestic woodlands with their abundance of mahogany, cedar, teak and bullet trees that will ultimately disappear.

Resettled in the parish

For the record, under the guise of progress, dozens of families were resettled in the parish of Trelawny from their original homesteads in the neighbouring parish of St. Ann when Kaiser Bauxite moved in on them 50 years ago. If one were to now step back across the border and take a peek, what remains is not a sight for sore eyes. Emotional proof can be a very strong tool in helping to persuade others so that they can feel and understand why we should be defiant with this mining issue.

Even for a moment, we must honestly stop and look at the 'progress' of bauxite mining of yesteryear, because only by examining the past can we bring into focus the problems of the future. History will become lost unless we choose to learn from it.

I am, etc.,

SONIA CHRISTIE

Stewart Town, Stewart Town P.O.

Trelawny