I live in United States but I still visit all of my relatives in Evergreen and Beverly in North West Manchester when I can. Like many others in the diaspora, I am concerned about the difficulties the residents of both communities face in this land we love.

Dean Peart, the man who has won the constituency for the PNP in five consecutive elections since February 1989, has not done much for the districts. While he reels out facts and figures about all that has been done for the constituency, the people tell a story of neglect and an attempt to 'keep us dumb'.

The early 1990s saw areas like Evergreen, Beverly and Comfort Hall becoming ghost towns when public passenger railway service ceased. The impact of the loss of rail service dealt a serious blow to these communities, especially the farmers. No one would disagree that transportation is a key ingredient for rural farmers to thrive and the lack of rail service makes it difficult for rural communities to survive. As farming employment has declined, other types of industry have not replaced the jobs that were lost. Thus, many young people have left to seek jobs elsewhere, often moving to a different part of the country.

Development concern

Stabilising population, enhancing job opportunities, and providing public services in these communities is a major rural development concern today. The well-being of residents and communities hangs in the balance. Many residents of Evergreen and Beverly understand that while the world seems to be leaving them behind, they still play a vital role in that world. If historical and current trends continue, however, the future of these farming-dependent districts will be one of further declines in population, especially among the working-age and well-educated.

Elected officials must do more to transform rural areas with roads, transportation, water supply, market support and others. The bottom line is to assist the farmers in becoming more involved in technology sooner rather than later. Agriculture is still the main source of income of many rural areas in Jamaica, so it should be the centre of programmes for development. One of the persons who were very instrumental in getting electricity for the area in the 1980s was the late John Carnegie of Beverly. What is surprising, though, is how little has changed since.

The people of Evergreen and Beverly in North West Manchester are not looking for handouts, just an honest helping hand.

I am, etc.,

NEVILLE CARNEGIE

New Jersey,

USA