The Editor, Sir:

It is with a sense of responsibility that I as a Jamaican overseas seek to explain to my family at home the situation that exists at home is equally bad abroad. I listen to Jamaican radio stations via the Internet and read the newspapers to see the action of the leaders and I say both sides are being dishonest.

I can say living here in the US, I have seen where many ordinary people like myself have found it difficult to buy food and pay bills. In my community, the local food bank has seen a run on supplies as the economic crisis has started to hit even the average middle-class families. It is not unusual to hear of fellow Jamaicans asking those at home for a loan until things get better. It might seem incredulous, but it's true. City councils have introduced mandatory four-day weeks to save on wages and fuel costs.

Hurting

So, when money is not sent home, its not because people are being mean, we too are really hurting. I am not ashamed to say some days I really don't have it, because it's true. Yes, being abroad may facilitate opportunities, but to think Jamaica is always the worst is wrong.

For those who don't believe, take a look at The Bahamas, hotel occupancy in their largest hotel is down to 10% and workers are doing two days per week. In California, by the end of October they will run out of money to pay public-sector workers.

I am, etc.,

DAVID FRANCIS

honeywelljm@yahoo.com

3547 Phoenix Way

Lauderdale Lakes

Florida

Via Go-Jamaica