The Editor, Sir:

Your editorial on September 30, regarding Jamaica's plans to transform the island into an international financial services centre (IFSC) was most welcome. I agree that this area demands debate - robust debate, across party lines, with views sought from industry and commerce, from the public sector and the private sector, involving contributions from across the island and from the wider diaspora.

All views must be heard, and I respect yours on the preference for cooperation rather than competition between the emerging IFSCs of Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago. I respect, though I disagree. It is the cut and thrust of competition that produces excellence.

Economic strengths

When, in your editorial, you contrast the relative economic strengths of the two countries - quoting rates of growth, budget surpluses and foreign currency reserves - Trinidad clearly comes out on top. I do not disagree with your analysis.

My concern is that in such circumstances cooperation often becomes uneven, with one partner becoming dominant and thereby gaining the majority benefits of the collaboration.

I do favour discussions between Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago in those areas where there is mutual advantage for both IFSC jurisdictions. But we must guard against playing second fiddle to a neighbouring IFSC under the guise of cooperation.

I am, etc.,

Dr TREVOR THOMAS

tax@drtrevorthomas.com

P.O. Box 49271

London SE12 0WS

Via Go-Jamaica