The Editor, Sir:

AFTER WATCHING the activities leading to our general elections over the past few weeks, I have come to realise something very important: hurling insults at the opposing party for the sake of entertainment does not a successful campaign make. If we voters are going to make an informed and intelligent decision on who is best to lead this country, we need to disengage ourselves from the entanglement of inter-party combat, duck the flying missiles and angrily pointed fingers, and when the dust settles for a bit, take a look at the hard facts.

It is a fact, for example, that the People's National Party (PNP) has made significant developments for our country since taking the reins from the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) in 1989. I believe this is especially true in terms of Jamaica's infrastructure: our two international airports, Highway 2000 as well as the improvement of the North Coast Highway project, the new transportation centre in Half-Way Tree, and the expansion and modernisation of the Kingston Container Terminal.

But many people don't think these developments have anything to do with our governing party. Many of us happily drive on the new roads, enjoy the boost in our personal income that lower inflation allows, and at the same time curse the PNP for not doing anything for Jamaica.

I think one reason for this is many people simply aren't aware of the PNP's achievements. But when it comes to an important decision such as who will lead our country for the next five years, we all need to do our research and make an informed decision.

Unemployment is nearly nine per cent lower than it was when the JLP held office in 1988. Instead of the run-down minibus system that existed back then, we now have a reliable Jamaica Urban Transit Company operation. Tourism arrivals have tripled over the past 19 years. Bauxite production is at its highest in 32 years. Our disastrous borrowing relationship with the International Monetary Fund was terminated. National Housing Trust mortgages and housing construction are at record levels. Tertiary enrolment is three times higher. And the percentage of crimes cleared by police is over 20 per cent higher.

If we really put our ears to the ground and pay attention, there is a wealth of information out there about the respective political parties, and one of these little nuggets of data could make or break a vote.

I encourage all of my fellow voters to be responsible citizens. No matter who you vote for, make sure you're voting for the right reason.

I am, etc.,

Dr. EARL GRAYSON

earlgrayson@yahoo.com