What about St. Thomas?

THE EDITOR, Sir:

THERE are places in St. Thomas that don't even have a public telephone. If there is an emergency, the members of the community have to take care of it themselves or travel as far as five miles to the closest phone.

Some districts do not have proper roads for over 20 years now. The St. Thomas Sugar Factory marl roads that were designed for tractors are those that are being used as public roads. This situation needs to be rectified immediately.

The Government's plan for housing in St. Thomas is not acceptable as we need money to buy and maintain these houses and money comes through having jobs. Please remember that the Goodyear Tyre Factory is now gone, the Eastern Banana Company has downsized, and the sugar factory - which is seasonal - can hold so much and no more. To make matters worse the money that is received in the off-season is ridiculous. This lack of employment is taking its toll on our youths as they leave school with nothing to do but idle.

The worst thing about this situation is that St. Thomas has the potential to develop. For example, eco-tourism could thrive here, as this is a beautiful parish with bountiful and exotic natural resources. There are a large number of pure white sand and pebble beaches, various waterfalls and an almost enchanting landscape. We also possess botanical gardens. As for our heritage we are still practicing our Kumina culture daily.

The Government needs to invest in St. Thomas and so encourage other businesses to follow. This would provide employment for the new generation and help to develop the parish at the same time.

I am, etc.,

NICOLE WILLIAMS

Golden Grove P.O.

St. Thomas

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