THE EDITOR, Sir:

THE JAMAICA Labour party (JLP) has been readily asked how they will pay for the promises which have been outlined in their manifesto, chief among them, the commitments for tuition-free education and an abolition of health fees. The importance of how it will be paid for is an important one and the JLP must answer as clearly as possible.

Notwithstanding, we must look at this issue, not as a JLP promise, but see it in the context of two national priorities above all others. The issue of cost must also be married with issues of quality. Now the question we must ask ourselves as a nation is: Should we place as a national priority the provision of free access to quality health and education and therefore, should it be a part of the core objectives of our nation, and as a core objective, be funded accordingly?

If the answer to this question is no, then what else comes before it? If the answer to it is yes, then we must, like anyone managing any set of resources find a way; and if a way can be found for other things, it should be found for what we should deem as national priorities.

It seems all a matter of what we want, and how badly we want it. It is a matter of priority and will.

I am, etc.,

MARK PIKE

xtraboy2001@hotmail.com

62 Ward Avenue

Mandeville, Manchester

Via Go-Jamaica