Dear Editor,

We have been overwhelmed with questions about the absence of the Brick Oven in the courtyard at Devon House. Questions have also led to speculation as we read an inaccurate report printed in the other major newspaper entitled ‘Brick Oven told to ‘leave’ Devon House’.

Please allow me the opportunity to explain the facts:

As a policy, we make every effort to ensure that there is confidentiality in all negotiations with our tenants. For this reason, we try to protect their privacy. However, as the former tenant of the Brick Oven reported to the media that she had been asked to leave the property, we have no alternative but to now use the media to explain our position.

For a long time Devon House had been run down. When a new board was put in place one of the things that was discovered was that many tenants were not paying rent. As Devon House relies on rental income to support its operations the board took the decision that all tenants would be subject to the same policy: they would be given notice to pay up or they would have to vacate. All tenants were advised that rent had to be collected.

As the executive director of Devon House, I implement the policy of the board. In the case of the Brick Oven, they were given ample opportunity to pay up the rent that was due. When they failed to pay the outstanding sums for rent, water and maintenance, they were given a notice to quit.

We are in the process of revitalising the property without favour. We have to follow economic prudence and good business practice, especially at a most difficult time. We, therefore, have to do what all sensible landlords would do: collect rent.

Finally, we have heard the most vicious rumour that we are repositioning the property as a venue for an uptown clientele. Nothing could be further from the truth. Devon House is where uptown meets downtown and we pride ourselves in offering a Jamaican experience to one and all. We are working hard to restore a national treasure for our tourists and for all Jamaicans from every walk of life.

We ask our valued patrons to be patient as we put in place a new bakery in the courtyard. Having said this, the public can rest assured that this bakery will carry refreshments, including patties that will be affordable to every pocket.

Janette Taylor

Executive Director

Devon House Development Company Limited