The Editor, Sir:

Having worked in the international arena and seen the efforts of external forces to influence domestic policies, I have become prone to embracing conspiracy theories when observing and assessing the evolution of certain local affairs.

I had been wondering about the source of this sudden push for pro-abortion legislation; is it coming from within Jamaica? Outside of Jamaica? Then I read the report in Friday's Gleaner (October 10, 2008) of the announcement and decision by the Joint Select Committee chairman that non-Jamaicans will be permitted to make submissions to the committee on the abortion issue. Bingo. If this is allowed to go ahead, the outside forces will soon be unveiled.

Dangerous move

This is a dangerous move and once the door is opened, it will be very difficult to shut. After the abortion issue, what next? - The definition of marriage and family? The death penalty? Prayer in schools? Think of any other issue of governance and morality in which Jamaica has a different view from North American and European countries.

And please note, this is not an international convention being debated here, neither is our local Parliament akin to the negotiating field of the International Labour Organisation.

The fact that anti and pro-abortion persons will be chosen is irrelevant. The relevant fact is that the opportunity is being granted. I implore you members of the committee, don't do it.

I am, etc.,

REECE BRISCOE

reecebriscoe@gmail.com