The Editor, Sir:

I read with interest The Gleaner's editorial dated February 14, suggesting the implementation of a random polygraph test for police officers, an idea which this reader endorses, but also thinks such a proposal should also be extended to include public officials.

The need for such initiative would be most fitting at this time, due in part to concern raised recently in regard to public officials' procedural breaches and alleged corrupt activities.

Implementation would certainly enhance the checks and balance capabilities necessary for transparency and accountability, which is lacking in our system of governance.

Cooperation required

Certainly, this bold step would indeed require the cooperation of all the players in the political process. I would hope, that with the expressed commitment by Prime Minister Bruce Golding for transparency in governance and with similar sentiments from Opposition Leader Portia Simpson Miller, such a proposal would be most welcome on both sides of the political fence as their assent would be critical to facilitate its implementation and enforcement.

We are forced to accept mediocrity on the part of public officials because effective proactive measures are not being taken to discourage inappropriate activities, therefore there is indeed a need for the problem to be dealt with immediately and emphatically.

I am cognisant of the fact, that this is by no means a panacea and also as your editorial had aptly indicated "... that polygraph testing is not a foolproof method of determining if someone is truthful ..." but surely, the rational is that if one knows that he or she would be subjected to random testing, he or she might not pursue nor contemplate corrupt activities.

I am, etc.,

ERROL McLEISH

ermarlii16@hotmail.com

Daytona, Greater Portmore

St Catherine