THE EDITOR, Sir:

After careful consideration and analysis of the advantages and disadvantages of polygamy, it became quite clear to me that Jamaica should not legalise this practice.

Despite the fact that there is a perception that many Jamaican men are involved in multiple relationships and as such recognising that these men with their many women, wives or otherwise would merely be confirming the norm in our society, the questions must be asked:

Due to the fact or perception that certain activities are common practice in our society, should we then legitimise them?

Do polygamous relationships contribute or pose greater health risks to our country in light of our campaign against STDs and other infectious diseases?

Should we abandon our values, principles and belief systems which generally encourage monogamous relationships in order to facilitate society's poly-gamous trend?

In light of the National Family Planning Board's outreach drive geared towards encouraging two-children families, where would the polygamy dynamic fit?

There can be no doubt that all the individuals involved in polygamous relationships will not benefit from the kind of attention, resources and other critical ingredients which contribute to healthy relationships.

Irresponsibility is a distraction from responsibility.

I am, etc.,

RICARDO WILKS

ricardowilks@hotmail.com

Youth advocate