The Editor, Sir:

I write in response to an article in The Gleaner of July 6, 'Access Fund Pay Out'.

I have been a civil servant for the past 11 years. I work with one of the regional health authorities (RHA). To obtain the equipment, material and other things necessary to conduct my duties, I must make written requests, which are thoroughly checked before they are processed. The slightest discrepancy in my claims, requests, etc., are queried, which leads to long delays or even investigations and disciplinary action. My point is that at this level, every effort is made to protect the monies of the Government, sometimes at the expense of top-quality work output by staff.

Now, for the life of me, I can't imagine why such care is taken at the grass-root level, and scant regard is given to more critical matters at the executive level. The Access Fund was established for a specific purpose, but is being abused by persons in authority. What is appalling is the amount paid over such a short period of time.

I recall several times when my RHA did not meet its budgetary requirements and staff members were asked to 'economise', or some times told that they couldn't be reimbursed for travelling duties, or they couldn't get their personal protective equipment that was bargained for by their unions. In procuring equipment and services, we have to advertise for tenders and most times, the cheapest is selected. The staff, despite being disgruntled at times, has conceded in good faith in the best interest of the country's health.

Why then couldn't the legal matters of this organisation be dealt with in a more economically viable manner? It would appear as if cost cutting and economising are for the grass-roots people alone.

I see this as the abuse of State funds. I also believe this is happening on a wide scale in this country, at the highest level. A serious investigation should be made into this matter. These atrocities have been happening in Jamaica for too long without being addressed.

How do we expect to gain the respect of the people when we use their money like that? The Jamaican people need people in these positions that can be trusted and at the rate at which these things are committed, unnoticed and unpunished in this country, mistrust of all persons in government will soon be the rule and not the exception.

I believe in my country and have worked all my life to elevate it. The rate at which our leaders are abusing the system will ultimately lead to the demise of this country. I am appealing to all persons of influence in the Jamaican society, especially those responsible for government spending, to "use poor people money wisely, and remember, "woeful waste makes woeful want."

I am, etc.,

S. Fletcher