The Editor, Sir:

The Jamaican Constitution should be amended to allow dual citizenship holders to vote and hold political office. Without Jamaicans living abroad and sending their remittances, the island would be in socio-economic and political bedlam; in a Sunday Gleaner article of 08-01-2006, Mr Seaga stated that in 2002, Jamaica received the highest remittances from overseas in the amount of US$1.204 billion, equal to all foreign exchange sources (such as bauxite/alumina, tourism, sugar and rum combined).

Just imagine the huge disaster if the island lost 50 per cent of its foreign exchange? Therefore, the Jamaican diaspora plays a vital and significant role by sustaining and providing some stability for the Jamaican way of life on the island. Consequently, we should be respected and allowed to participate in the political process.

Reasons for migration

Jamaicans migrate to better themselves, escape poverty, and for educational and economic opportunities which the island could not provide. Isn't it idiotic to preclude these ambitious, forward-thinking Jamaicans or higher level of talent from making significant contributions to the island? Why ostracise dual citizenship holders?

It was very difficult for many Jamaicans to leave the island, but in their hearts burned the desire to return home one day. Jamaica must not continue to disallow dual citizenship for the Jamaican diaspora. Some are successful businessmen, rich, enlightened and educated elites in advanced industrialised countries. Can you imagine the significant contributions this pool of talent can make to the island? Marcus Garvey lived abroad. Look at his great contributions - he became a National Hero! Was his allegiance in doubt?

Global economy

Modern and progressive countries, such as Australia, India, Egypt, Nigeria, Ghana, South Africa, etc., allow dual citizenship. Excluding dual citizenship holders from the Jamaican socio-political way of life is selfish and destructive. In our modern global economy, it is time to amend the Constitution.

There are many arguments supporting dual citizenship which promotes the development of a strong export-oriented economy; attracts highly skilled professionals and business migration; increase tax revenues; allows individuals to pursue quality education and employment opportunities abroad; increases opportunities for citizens and businesses to compete and build contacts globally; attracts significant foreign exchange remittances which does not take tax dollars to promote.

I am, etc.,

PETER REDWAY

parcpa@juno.com

Coral Springs, Florida

Via Go-Jamaica