Ordinarily we do not seek to defend ourselves in the public forum; however, based on the blatant disrespect for Refrigerated Cargo Importers and Minister Dr Christopher Tufton, we feel compelled to comment on the unfounded self-righteous position of the local broiler companies.

There are several areas of misinformation that we feel that the public needs to be made aware of to understand the complexities involved in this business of providing healthy, affordable food options for the citizens of Jamaica.

Very particular

To begin with, two of the largest importers of meats including poultry, from the eggs, the hatchlings, the grains, mutton, offals, pork and fish, to name a few, are Copperwood (Caribbean Broilers) and Jamaica Broilers.

Second, the Veterinary Division of the Ministry of Agriculture is very particular about the countries of origin and the safety of the food that is allowed entry into the island, the meats must be inspected and certified fit for human consumption by government-appointed health agencies such as the FDA. Labels with, dates of production, dates of expiration, plant numbers, plant addresses, exact net weights, along with other information, must be affixed in English to each case.

Global village

The poultry, fish and other meats imported into Jamaica are sought after on the international market at highly competitive prices and we often compete with countries such as the Ukraine, Europe, China and South America, who are often times willing to pay higher prices for the goods than we can afford to.

To suggest that America dumps goods that they do not want or would not ordinarily consume is asinine, in fact, the world is now a global village and prices are based on demand, nothing else, simple economics.

The role of good governance, therefore is to evaluate the facts and create a balance so as to protect the consumer, while allowing local producers to thrive. We therefore cannot turn a blind eye on the broiler companies who remain uncompetitive despite the 40 per cent duty paid on the imported poultry, reduced from the usual 260 per cent duty. If the Government of Jamaica were to charge 100 per cent duty on the chicken produced in America for mainstream America and not for export as is suggested, importers would still be able to compete with local producers.

Right call

Minister Dr Tufton made the right call in this case. Times are difficult and while some persons are trying to figure out if they will be having a butterball turkey to go with the ham, shrimp and lobster this Christmas, the vast majority of this nation would really just like to be able to have an affordable meal on the table this year.

Mature nations acknowledge their social responsibility to those that are not able to take care of themselves. The old, the young, the poor, the uneducated, and those who are generally vulnerable. We need to think of the whole and not segments of society. Many persons are suffering and in this the season of charity and goodwill, let us ask ourselves this question. How damaging has it been to allow our brothers to have a decent meal at a reasonable price?

We commend you Minister Dr Christopher Tufton, and take this opportunity to wish each and every Jamaican a peaceful, happy, healthy and holy Christmas and a more thoughtful and caring 2009.

I am, etc.,

MICHAEL CHUCK

President, Cargo Importers

Association