We must express serious concern with the undue haste with which the Government has declared a period of public emergency. The decision to advise the Governor-General to make such a proclamation was made without consultation with the leader of the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP). We believe that a step of such enormous magnitude in the midst of a fiercely contested general election required some consultation. The Prime Minister's justification for taking this step is presented after the fact and is completely unconvincing.

It is essential that this emergency comes to an end immediately. The security forces are clearly on top of the situation. There is no threat to law and order. There is nothing "likely to endanger the public safety or to deprive the community, or any substantial portion of the community, of supplies or services essential to life". No justification for prolonging the emergency beyond today exists. It must come to an end now.

In her statements during and after the hurricane, the Prime Minister has spoken about the need for unity. Yet, this unilateral declaration strikes a death blow against unity. There can be no unity without thorough and timely consultation across the full spectrum of our political and civil leadership. Since it holds the levers of power, the Government has the main responsibility in this regard.