Supporting our local markets in light of tragedy

THE EDITOR Sir:

IN LIGHT of the recent kamikaze-style attack on the World Trade Center in New York City, I wish to express my condolences to the thousands of those who had families and loved ones in the buildings. It is remarkable to note the large contingent of Caribbean people who work in every capacity in the facility. We will see many no more.

It is hard to find people living in NYC who do not know someone who worked in the facility. In order to strengthen the resolve of the many persons affected by the madness of this unfortunate act, it is important to also consider the global implications, one of which is clearly the possibility of life without America. There are many today in Jamaica and other developing states who rely on the USA for many things, including daily sustenance. We should be prepared for the possibility of not having a ready market with as voracious an appetite as this country. One thing the USA can be is self-sufficient. Can we in Jamaica do the same?

It is not likely that those who ally themselves with the USA will be affected by punitive or restrictive measures, meant to bolster security, but can we afford not to have access to their cheap exports of food and technology for even a short time? For developing states as Jamaica and the Caribbean, that thought process needs to start now.

It is sad to see the vicious loss of life as was witnessed this past Tuesday, but as time continues, we must note the tenuous relationship of our economic and cultural well-being to this often denigrated USA. If there was a time to be independent, it is now.

This is not to say that we cannot show support for our neighbour in their time of need; many Caribbean and other nationals died this week. However, it is prudent that we consider well our need to be self-sufficient. This is one area where the WTO cannot be called on to define the rules of engagement, regarding how and when we trade in the world.

I am, etc.,

HUGH M. DUNBAR

hmd-energy@erols.com

West New York, New Jersey

Via Go-Jamaica

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