The Editor, Sir:

WITH SO many 'experts' opining on what should be done about the Yallahs bridge, it appears the most logical answer came from one of the 'locals' who spoke of the deforestation upstream.

Forget about routing the water to Kingston. Let's discuss the issue of potable water in St. Thomas. So many are without water. It would seem to be foolhardy to take away from the people of St. Thomas without first addressing their problem.

I am no engineer. However, I have heard discussions regarding the erecting of a bridge across the Yallahs River from many engineers. These "experts" said it can be done. Why not get the brightest minds and come up with a plan to address this issue? The people of St. Thomas deserve better.

To the minister who is in charge of this project. I hope to cross the Yallahs in the near future on a 'real' bridge. Not being partisan I must state that I was disappointed in the progress or lack thereof with which the previous government addressed this issue.

There is also the issue of of 11 Miles/Bull Bay area. Traffic is at a standstill when it rains heavily in the hills. I had the "privilege" of being caught in flood waters in November. I hope never to experience that again. It's time we demand better.

I am, etc.,

G.A. GILLESPIE

vgille@aol.com

Chicago, IL