The Editor, Sir:

It is interesting to see what will happen when the annual Sumfest reggae show takes place later this month.

The police and the authorities have enforced the Noise Abatement Law, so far, without favour or fear. The extent of which has caused major demonstrations and a riot in Montego Bay and the cancellation of many dances and stage shows across the island.

Apply law equally

Many promoters have lost money, and the dancehall fraternity is furious with the authorities.

I understand, however, that permission has been granted by the authorities for this year's Reggae Sumfest ahow.

Given the nature of this show and its proximity to residential dwellings in Catherine Hall and Seawind, and the times and the days of these events, I already see where breaches of the Noise Abatement Act will be impossible to avoid.

The authorities cannot on one hand be going around and 'curfewing' dances and stage shows, the majority of which belong to small promoters, and, on the other hand, sanctioning shows like Sumfest and AJ Jazz and Blues festival to flirt with the law.

The law must apply to one and all equally. If there is a problem with the law, then the lawmakers should seek to deal with that aspect.

I am, etc.,

ALBERT SPENCE

alsgood@hotmail.com

Montego Bay

Via Go-Jamaica