Dear Editor,

There is much criticism these days of public officials — particularly politicians — but when they perform well their achievements should also be recognised. The outstanding performance of Chris Tufton in agriculture has been noted from time to time, but the latest news that Tourism Minister Ed Bartlett has made a breakthrough in Jamaica accessing the South American market could be a major game-changer for the industry. He ought to be commended for taking an initiative that has sat there for years untouched, as for too long Jamaica’s tourism has been tied to the North American market.

Concomittant with Bartlett’s initiative, will Jamaica now see renewed efforts to promote Spanish in schools, bearing in mind that Jamaica is likely to be turning more and more to major rising markets in Latin America to promote other industries. Or are we going to focus our energies on promoting patois?

Just asking.

Errol WA Townshend

Ontario, Canada

ewat@rogers.com