The Editor, Sir:

I write to support the opinions expressed by Ken Jones in his letter in last Friday's Gleaner.

He, quite rightly, points out that the capitalist system, now accepted by us and indeed most of the world, requires people to be responsible for themselves and not expect that "prosperity must be engineered by the political directorate".

Waiting on 'messiah'

Indeed, that has been one of the serious problems I have noticed among Jamaicans. Too many of us feel that we should depend on the government and politicians to solve our problems.

This has led to a situation where many Jamaicans feel that their livelihood depends on who is in power and are willing to kill to get 'their man' in. Additionally. it has led to economic stagnation as people wait for the appropriate 'messiah' to rescue them.

I agree with Mr. Jones that the Government needs to stay as much as possible out of people's business. If persons want to invest in 'schemes', they should be free to do so and be responsible for the consequences.

Those who succeed by taking their risks should be admired not envied. Those who fail should learn that that is the system and they need to try again.

I am, etc.,

HUGH P SMYTHE

hsmythe@tstt.tt

10 Schooner Court

Westmoorings,

Trinidad & Tobago