THE EDITOR, Sir:BLIND PEOPLE can communicate verbally but cannot read written language. This is why the Braille system, a specialised form of writing, was developed. It was invented by a blind man named Louis Braille and is composed of a system of raised dots. Various formations and arrangements of the dots represent different letters of the alphabet or a number. Blind and visually handicapped persons pass their fingers over the raised dots reading the formations of words, sentences and paragraphs. They can therefore read books and novels and other literature.
Jamaica has several denominations of money including the $50, $100, $500 and $1,000 bills. It would be such a good idea if the Braille system could be used to imprint the denomination of money on each monetary note or bill. Is this possible? It would be for the convenience and enhanced lifestyle and independence of the blind.
I know that this would be a boost to their level of comfort and standard of living in a world where visual handicap is a challenge both to the blind and the sighted person. I believe the idea is feasible and possible.
I call on the Salvation Army, the Bank of Jamaica, Jamaica Society for the Blind and other relevant organisations and agencies to set about making the above suggestion become a reality. You would have the gratitude of many who often see with their hands.
I am, etc.,
C.D. SMITH
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