THE EDITOR,

This is the first time that I am ever writing something for public publication but I regularly read the newspapers and listen to the various news report.

Let me from the outset say who I am. I am a 42-year-old teacher in what is called ‘country’ in Jamaica, and I have two teenaged children. I have never voted and I have never supported any of the political parties.

My reason for writing, is to comment on the price of food items.

Nowadays when you enter a supermarket or corner shop, one can’t help but notice that every week the prices of even what is termed as the basic items, just keep moving up and up and up.

I cannot on my teachers’ salary afford the luxury items as I have to ensure the educational requirements of my children, that is, lunch money, transport money, and things like the internet.

Let’s take a look at the price surge on an item like tin mackerel, or ‘dutty gal’ as is better known in Jamaica.

Just a month ago, the small ‘dutty gal’ sold for approximately $50 -$55. Now, the cost of that same time small tin, depending on the brand you buy costs between $72 – $80.

This may not seem a lot, but for most like myself, it is difficult.

I don’t want or ask for any ‘freeness’, all I want is stability, people working, less crime, less talking, less bickering by our politicians, and a better effort to make the country better.

I thank you.

Liz Mason

St Elizabeth