THE EDITOR, Sir:

In responding to a letter in Tuesday's Gleaner titled, 'Customs charges to be questioned', I would like to add my two-piece.

I share the writer's view that the commissioner of customs is doing his job in trying to collect as much revenue for the Government by weeding out corruption that currently exists. He must be congratulated and given support in taking on such a mammoth task.

However, he must be mindful that this is a barrel country and many people depend and look forward to receiving gifts and sundry from family members and friends. This business also spins the economy, not just from customs revenue, but from the shipping industry and the employment benefit it affords. Should the barrel industry diminish, it would have a significant impact on the already struggling economy.

The commissioner needs to study the culture of our country and put in place concessions to deal with the poor as it applies to barrel and the contents thereof. Depriving this sector of Jamaica is a great injustice when a charge of $18,000 is expected to clear a barrel containing basic necessities, food, clothing and personal sundry.

The commissioner and the minister of finance should give serious consideration to this suggestion and put necessary measures in place to help the poor.

I am, etc.,

LUCI EMANUEL-EANES

luci_emanuel@hotmail.com

Kingston 5

Via Go-Jamaica