Dear Editor,

I’d like to use this opportunity to commend the cab driver and passing motorist who went out of their way to assist the Canadian visitor whose throat was slashed recently in Montego Bay.They helped to save a life. This story has made headline news (repeatedly) here in Canada and elsewhere online, more so since it has now been reported in the media, that the victim’s husband is also the brother of a member of parliament in Canada.

But for the quick action of these Jamaicans, including the police who responded immediately to the scene, the conclusion of the story could have been very different. In fact, without a doubt it could have had the most profound impact (negatively) on the tourist industry, and the perception many have of Jamaica and its people. Domestic violence is not an easy topic to discuss or report, yet it is so very prevalent in all societies, affecting individuals of every background, regardless of class, income and education.

Quite often we hear of negative news associated with Jamaica. Despite all the bad things we hear, it is certainly reassuring to learn about these acts of kindness. It was just over a year ago, when the AA flight crash-landed off the runway at the Norman Manley International Airport, we also heard of a passing bus driver who went out of her way to assist passengers, some injured. So, to the cab driver, the passing motorist, the police, the medical personnel and the JTB who assisted the victim and her family, even accompanying her when she appeared in court to testify – well done. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all those affected by this most unfortunate incident.

P Chin

Canada

Chin_p@yahoo.com