The Editor, Sir:

While I am sufficiently encouraged by the JLP's desire to remain true to their campaign promises and by the zeal with which this government is seeking to convert these promises to enacted laws and policies, I would be quite naive to think that they will not make mistakes or do things at times with which I may not find favour.

I cannot countenance, for instance, the recent appointment of Ms Joan Gordon-Webley as the new executive director of the scandal-ridden National Solid Waste Management Authority (NSWMA), while Ms Gordon-Webley remains the JLP's political voice or MP/caretaker for the constituency of S.E. St Andrew.

It was not appropriate when Mr. Vando Palmer, a short-serving PNP caretaker/candidate for Central Manchester, accepted that political position while he was still in the employ of the National Works Agency (NWA) as its communications director. This, as civil servants are barred from political representation while still so employed with the Government. The JLP, among other interests, was vehemently opposed to Mr. Palmer continuing in both roles, resulting in Mr Palmer resigning his position with the NWA.

Cleaning up

I have no doubt Ms. Gordon-Webley can potentially make a great impact on cleaning up the mess at the NSWMA; however, the rules that applied to Mr. Palmer cannot now be made inapplicable to Ms Gordon-Webley. That general parliamentary elections may not be imminent should not be of significance here, nor should whether Ms Gordon-Webley will be the candidate when such elections come around.

What is good for the goose must be made similarly good for the gander. My support for the JLP will not make me blind to certain practices or otherwise prejudice my ability to see and point out wrongs wherever and by whomever they may be committed.

I am, etc.,

KEVIN K.O. SANGSTER

sangstek@msn.com

New Jersey