Unproductive sniping

The Editor, Sir:

The Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) and People's National Party (PNP) can't wage a perpetual campaign where the only goal is to see who can get the most embarrassing headlines about the other side - a belief that if you lose, I win.

Neither party should delay or obstruct a bill just because it can. Politicians must never shred the will of the people for raw, ugly partisan gain.

Must offer solutions

The PNP represents an alternative government, and has a responsibility to challenge the policies of the Government and produce different policies where appropriate. The PNP ought not to be just about opposing the JLP Government, however. There are occasions when the Opposition can agree with the Government. If the solution proposed by the Government has wide support, and is soundly based, then it's only natural for the Opposition to agree.

The PNP cannot simply be the party of "no", but must offer solutions to voters' problems. The PNP have to give the Jamaican people reasons to take a look at them. You can't lead anyone else further than you have gone yourself.

Getting legislation passed is an established process within our system of government and often involves getting bipartisan support. Support for legislation should be given if it is the right legislation and addresses the topic in a responsible way.

Merits of the legislation

There are two questions to ask. The first is whether the decision made was based on the merits of the legislation and the other involves the will of the people. These are simple questions. What our elected officials must realise is they are there at the people's discretion. It is the voters who have the final say on actions and decisions made by their elected officials.

As a Member of Parliament, taking the oath of office does not mean you have to toe the party line. You are responsible for making the laws that govern Jamaica and ensuring that the Government works efficiently and responsibly. Sniping from the sidelines may be a sound political strategy. However, it detracts from the collaborative development of effective solutions to the crisis. Political dissonance creates public division and doubt at a time when economic confidence and harmony are most crucial.

I am, etc.,

NEVILLE CARNEGIE

New Jersey