The Editor, Sir:

After having listened to utterances made by the leader of the People's National Party (PNP) Portia Simpson Miller at her party's conference I am convinced the message has not reached home that we need to chart a new course for the new Jamaica.

Concerning the Government's decision to approach the International Monetary Fund (IMF), I wonder what the PNP would have done if they were in power and Jamaica was caught between the 'devil and the deep blue sea'? I really do not think as an opposition your place and position in this country is to oppose every idea of the Government without offering other reasonable and workable solutions.

Let us be frank, Simpson Miller, you are the Queen's loyal opposition and should, as you say, be the Government's 'worst nightmare', but I think you are jumping out of your sleep too quickly. Let your dreams frighten the Government more than they seem to be scaring you. Do offer solid criticisms of the Government but try and agree on issues relating to the development of the country and the people of Jamaica.

Too much criticising

I think the opposition is taken up with too much criticising that they miss grand opportunities for good round-table talks to unite and set the country on a path to recovery and success. It has been often said what is done on platforms by political figures are public shams because behind closed doors you are all friends - but I am tired of it.

Those dirty linens can be washed behind closed doors in exchange for those closed-door pictures. I would love see party leaders show to their followers, although we disagree with policies of the ruling party, we can still be friends in public. I would love to have heard a more riveting and soul-searching speech without trinkets hanging on to it.

I am, etc.,

EVERTON TYNDALE

evat_78@hotmail.com

Mandeville, Manchester