THE EDITOR, Sir:

I see where the Portland Parish Council supports the idea of fees being charged for Wnnifred Beach when the development plans are concluded.

We are perfectly aware that there is a cost for the development and maintenance of the facility, but one has to consider the social cost to the residents of the area.

These are people who have had access to the beach for generations. How can you explain to a family with children that they can no longer use the beach unless they can pay the required fee?

Issue passes

In reality, the government should be able to afford free access for residents, but the Government is hard-pressed for money in spite of taxation. Would the Urban Develop-ment Corporation issue passes to the residents of the area?

In my visits to Hawaii and Texas, I note where citizens have free access to beaches.

In Galveston, access to the beach is provided all along the roadway at intervals. Persons who have houses on the beach do not own the beach. Public beaches are reserved for all and sundry.

Of course, private beaches exist, but care is taken that there are lots of public beaches. This does not only apply to Galveston, but all along the Texas coastline.

The famous Wakkiki beach in Hawaii is free and open. There are hotels along the beach, but the hotels do not own the beach. They are free to use it as other citizens.

Meet with citizens

Sadly, in Jamaica, the beaches are no longer our heritage. Roadways have been diverted from the coast to give way to development. We are being pushed to the hills.

Before decisions are made, I think the participating parties should visit overseas and they should also meet with the citizens of the parish to work out the future use of the facility.

I am, etc.,

DOREEN McLEOD

BRAMWELL

P.O. Box 52

Port Antonio