The Editor, Sir:

Your editorial reference, in yesterday's Gleaner (October 1), to the recent appointment of Senator Sandrea Falconer, is as unfortunate as it is baseless. You say that Senator Falconer "has hardly distinguished herself in the Senate" over this one-year period.

The fact is that the Senate, itself, during the first year of this halting administration, has not had an opportunity to distinguish itself. Precious little has been placed on the table by the Government.

Seized opportunity

Senator Falconer, on the occasions that she has seized the opportunity to make a contribution, has certainly been incisive, searching and thought-provoking. In any event, did not the opposition leader specifically signal that the thinking behind the appointments made to the spokespersons council included the requirement of training and exposure in the subject areas?

In this time of a direct challenge to family life in Jamaica and the care and protection of our children who are clearly targeted in the orgy of criminal activity in the land, what evidence is there that Senator Falconer will not make a real contribution in the relevant councils, including in the Senate? Indeed, her presentations in that very forum, from your own reports, will confirm that probability and expectation.

This is a time to encourage, not to vilify; to call a spade a spade if one must, but with cogent evidence. With respect, the editorial comment relating to Senator Falconer's appointment is the type of 'unkind cut' that is totally uncalled for in these times.

I am, etc.,

A.J. NICHOLSON

Leader of Opposition

Business in the Senate