The Editor, Sir:

As I read The Gleaner online daily, I am deeply concerned. Jamaica appears to be potentialy near disaster. When the crime rate escalates as it has and the state of confusion with regard to Jamaica's pride is being addressed daily, there is no alternative perception to take than the country is in a crisis and could slip into a non-retrievable situation.

Reading The Gleaner stimulates a certain fear that will be shared by would-be visitors as well as Jamaicans forced to be 'away from home', who visit Jamaica on a regular basis and who promote Jamaica as paradise.

Jamaica has always been outstanding in tourism, culture, music, beauty, sports ... basically a household topic around the globe.

I believe the root of this degredation will have to be addressed. It must be time for all able citizens to demand that criminals be flushed out of every community, and take on the role that the Christian group HOPE has planned on the 'brink of possible disaster' as many now feel.

We must stand up, look around and do something. Jamaica must be saved; every opportunity is at the door.

ICC Cricket World Cup and world-class music festivals are promoting our country. There is no time to sit and watch. Jamaicans together must stand united and turn back the tide for a new beginning. As our forefathers planned for a 'beautiful Jamaica,' we must as well.

I am etc.,

JAN NATION MACKINNON

jxmackinnon@edu.pe.ca

Prince Edward Island

Canada

Via Go-Jamaica