Database needed

THE EDITOR, Sir

In his letter to you of July 15, Peter Anglin made a very good suggestion regarding the development of a database of tradesmen in the island. Among other things, as he pointed out, such a database could assist greatly in the process of engaging artisans for any particular type of work in whatever area, to the benefit of both the 'engager' and the 'engagee'.

On a slightly different but related note, it seems that it would be desirable for a database of all occupations in the island (doctor, plumber, carpenter, lawyer, singer, any legal activity, that is) to be developed by, say, the Planning Institute of Jamaica, or some other agency, and kept up to date as time progressed.

Apart from being possibly helpful in the 'engagement-of-services' process, as in the case referred to above, such a record might prove useful in a number of other considerations including:

(a) Providing assistance for individual career choices by students at the upper high school and tertiary levels of education.

(b) Providing assistance to government planners regarding the emphasis, or lack thereof, that would be given to the nurturing and promoting of various disciplines, depending on the demand (lack or saturation levels) of same in the society.

I am, etc.,

David Abrikian