The Editor, Sir:

When Britain faced what seemed like certain defeat in World War 11, Winston Churchill in his famous speech said "I can offer you nothing but blood, sweat and tears" That was the rallying cry that galvanized everyone to make the sacrifices that would eventually lead to victory.

In Jamaica today we face a similar situation with crime, corruption and our economic situation. We are manacled by debt and the Government alone cannot save us. Many Jamaicans do not know the extent of our indebtedness and the Government needs to tell us.

In the previous government we would borrow for housekeeping and much of this was squandered. I can remember members of the House of Representatives applauding when the Minister of Finance announced that he was able to secure loans.

Every man, woman and child can join in this battle for survival. It will demand sacrifice. We have to work on ways to spend less. We have try to increase food production. I can recall the days of Jamaica Welfare when the emphasis was on households and community groups. Stalwarts such as Eddie Burke, Leo Pinnock, Sylvia Leslie and many others were there to educate people how to produce, save and provide nutritious meals with what they had. There were the ovens made from kerosene tins, the one-pot meals, craft items.

Copping other countries

We seem to forget that we are not a developed country and we cannot ape the lifestyle of developed countries. This is the time for RADA and the JAS to work with the communities to see if we can move forward, if it is even to feed ourselves.

Years ago we produced red peas and corn in abundance. The majority of our vegetables are imported, while we use our agricultural lands to build houses.

Public forums will have to be held in all areas of the island to inform the people of our situation and what they can do to help - plant a garden, walk where you can, cut out the bling and save, no matter how little. This is not a political matter. It is a matter for all Jamaicans and both political parties should participate in the forums. Political groups are not there only to win elections. We have to get out of that mindset.

The Government should assist recycling companies as too much is going to waste. Taxation resulted in some going out of business. They are the ones who need waivers. It is time to look at this again. Our members of parliament do not have all the answers. To govern effectively they need to listen to the people and not only when they demonstrate.

As Britain survived so can we if we accept the fact that is no easy road but one of "blood, sweat and tears."

I am, etc.,

DOREEN McLEOD-

BRAMWELL

Port Antonio