Dear Editor,

A demonstration of the People’s National Party’s (PNP) approach to the law was shown on the evening news, where copyrighted music was heard being played at two events: one a Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) event, another hosted by the PNP. The commentator said that royalties to the artistes whose music was played at the JLP’s function had been paid.

A member of the PNP’s executive was asked at a different party function if they had properly paid royalties to the artistes for the music. Recall, the PNP’s executive is packed with attorneys-at-law. But he said, no they had not, and only if they were approached to pay would they pay.

Now, payment of royalties to the artistes whose music is played at a public function is in the Jamaican law. In fact, Jamaica has signed international treaties with regard, to copyrighted music. Moreso, PNP ministers of government have been promoting copyright laws protecting Jamaican music.

So, what has passed unremarked for the past few days is the statement that they must be essentially forced to observe the law and pay royalties, instead of being proactive in obeying a law that has been in place for years. A classic case of do as I say, not as I do. One law for me and another for you.

Howard Chin

Member, Jamaica Institution of Engineers

hmc14@cwjamaica.com