Issue: Leave CCJ decision to Parliament

THE EDITOR, Sir:

In relation to the establishment of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ), Delroy Chuck, shadow minister of justice, is reported to have said, "If we are going to be true to the Constitution of this country, let us sit and work it out; but don't try to ram this court down the throats of the people without their endorsement and approval."

Meanwhile, from another corner of his mouth, he is reported as saying that he saw no need for further discussions and that the Jamaica Labour Party has given the people a commitment that there will have to be a referendum. Isn't this dictating to the people who have never asked for it?

What does Mr Chuck mean? Is there a requirement in the Constitution for a referendum, and is the JLP the government of this country or even known to the Constitution?

In any case, why the commitment that there will have to be a referendum when the people have not asked for this, knowing that the unnecessary cost will be boxing food out of hungry mouths?

I think there should be a conscience vote in both Houses of Parliament for the replacement of the Privy Council by the Caribbean Court of Justice. We must be confident that there are sufficient right-thinking opposition members who would vote for the replacement in the interest of public finance and the people.

OWEN S. CROSBIE

oss@cwjamaica.com

Mandeville, Manchester