Often one gets caught up in the realm of knowledge that it is difficult to understand simple issues or concerns of the average person. I have heard different persons express their point of view on whether the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) or the Privy Council should be our final court of appeal. There are obvious advantages and disadvantages associated with either choice.

I do agree with the Government that this is a decision that can have far-reaching implications, and hence, it should not be rushed and the population at large should have a voice in the decision. However, the passage of time will not lead us to be better able to understand the issue unless we are better informed of what the options are and what are the implications, etc.

Persons in favour of the CCJ are understandably upset by the PM's pronouncement, but should give some credit to his point. One of the concerns about having a final court of appeal within proximity is the question of influence, especially in an environment which breeds corruption, as ours does. Persons who are wary about having our final court of appeal located here in Jamaica will have just about the same concern about a final court of appeal located in the Caribbean. It is not about competence; it is about the perception of justice being given a fair chance. The camaraderie which exists in the region, where everyone knows everyone, does not augur well for objectivity and justice.

Whether or not it is so, when we think of the Privy Council we think of persons a far distance over the seas, quite distant from the case, who can appreciate and offer objectivity to the issues presented to them.

I am, etc.,

ANGELA BISASOR

a.bisasor@gmail.com