The Editor, Sir:

My colleagues and I have had some very heated discussions on the matter of Jamaican politics.

Among the issues raised:

a) all known criminals should be rounded up and held in detention indefinitely;

spend on agriculture

b) more money needs to be spent by the private sector in local agriculture so that we can become less import-dependent; and, most significantly

c) that overseas Jamaicans in the diaspora should be allowed to have representation in the Jamaican Parliament if they are willing to pay taxes in Jamaica - never mind double-taxation treaties - so that upon returning home they will have access to all services and be given their rightful place in Jamaica.

It should never be that those who live overseas be allowed to make decisions for us while sitting in the comfort of their overseas armchairs.

The more taxes they pay, the more debt we can amortise and the more money will be available to give us good healthcare systems, educational institutions, as well as resources for crime fighting.

playing a part

No representation without some measure of taxation - 10-15 per cent of their earnings. We should not pay so that they can return to enjoy. Remittances are personal savings and family-oriented. There must be meaningful contribution to the national pie.

I am, etc.,

CLIVE OCNACUWENGA

gingerground@hotmail.com

Box 83 Gregory Park P.O.,

St Catherine

Via Go-Jamaica