The Editor, Sir:

Over the past months I have watched with interest the various and sundry changes taking place at Air Jamaica. Every time I have heard the new chairperson speak I have been struck by her measured words and clear thinking; yet Air Jamaica continues to be plagued by problems.

In contrast to the chair, the head of at least one of the unions which represents the workers, Mr. Lambert Brown, strikes me as being on a 'power trip'. He is always threatening to 'lock down' Air Jamaica. And to what end?

I do not believe the many unions which represent the Air Jamaica workers have taken the time to think through what is really in the best interest of those workers. In the same way I do not believe the workers themselves have really assessed their situation in a wise way.

Whose interest does it serve to lock down the airline? Will the workers benefit? Will strikes and disruptions place Air Jamaica in a better or worse position financially or image-wise? Who stands to lose most if Air Jamaica closes? Isn't it the same workers and unions who now seem hell-bent on cutting off their noses to spite their faces?

Beware of the big bad wolves

Unfortunately, it is not only the unions and workers who will suffer if Air Jamaica closes. There are many others who will pay the price which will ultimately emanate from a lockdown. I believe it is time for JUTA and taxi operators who stand to lose out as well as companies such as Versair which provides in-flight food service and hotels which benefit from the service Air Jamaica provides to weigh in on the matter. Well thinking Jamaicans need to talk to their colleagues and friends at Air Jamaica and in the unions. Huffing and puffing and blowing the house down will only let the wolves in. Is that what they want?

I am, etc.,

CAROLYN SCOTT

Widcombe Drive

Kingston 6