I don't agree with the Police Federation's approach in the current wage talks with the Government. I am a strong supporter of the police but I believe they are making a tactical error. There must be a significant level of cooperation and professionalism displayed by the police union and their respective leadership.

The unions in Jamaica must understand the financial dilemma the country is currently up against, but, more important, their willingness to sit down and be part of the solution. The Police Federation and other unions should be thankful they have jobs in this crisis. Asking all the unions to hold the line on wages for a year, or having a wage freeze, it seems entirely reasonable to help Jamaica get through this recession. These are the hard decisions. There's no way around it.

Aggravating the slowdown

Threats of protest action will likely aggravate the slowdown in the economy, with no real financial benefit for those participating in the strike. To make matters worse, the strike could be damaging to tourism.

This is the time for all of us to come together and give our best to the survival of our country, we must all make sacrifices. I do hope that members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force and workers at the National Water Commission will reconsider their threatened course of action.

I am, etc.,

NEVILLE CARNEGIE

New Jersey

USA