Dear Editor,

Sacrifices are made to reap benefits, whether material or spiritual. Since the 70s the Jamaican populace has been called on a number of occasions to make sacrifices. But what benefits, whether peace or prosperity, have we reaped from the sacrifices made? We were told at different times in our political history to tighten our belts and bite the bullet. By all indications (a $1.6-trillion debt which is still climbing), it is now time for the bitter medicines to resuscitate the economy.

Some cures can also kill! For this reason it is of utmost importance that we be informed of the nature of the bitter medicines we will be forced to swallow. Will there be a wage freeze, massive job cuts in the public sector, increased taxes or some new or major experimentation in the economy? Hopefully, the national debates and the manifestos of the parties should shed some light.

There is no denying that the global recession is still on. Tough times call for tough decisions and actions. “It tastes awful but it works”, is the advertising punch line for an effective cough medicine.

In a democracy, it is often said, power lies in the hands of the people. But powerful external factors and forces often come into play. At the same time, however, let us try and ensure greater levels of transparency and accountability from whichever party forms the next administration. And hopefully, whatever bitter medicines are prescribed will, like a cough medicine with an awful taste, simply get the job done.

Daive R Facey

DR Facey@gmail.com