There are a number of things that I admire about the prime minister of Jamaica. I believe he is a person who genuinely cares about the future of his country. I am convinced, however, that in his attempt to be all things to all people, the prime minister has shown us that he is weak and indecisive.

The recent tax package is undoubtedly a very bitter pill to swallow. People will need to dig deeper, spend wiser, eliminate waste, and make a lot of sacrifices. The point of focus, though, should never be on the 'bitter' but on the 'pill'. The Opposition, which is the major architect of Jamaica's current demise, is once again successful in selling the 'bitter'.

Civil unrest

The campaign is in high gear to bring about civil unrest. In reality, all this amounts to is the advantage that is being taken of the uneducated mass of Jamaicans who cannot think for themselves and who would have nothing else to do anyway but to protest. These are the same people who were always poor, the same people who couldn't afford basic food items, the same people whose financial status is not different from what is was under the previous government.

I am shocked and embarrassed at our prime minister's cowering under pressure. I agree that there are things that are being taxed that are outright ridiculous, but where was the PM when the decision was being made to impose taxes in the first instance? There was certainly no need for three 'budgets' in one year, and I am convinced it's because the Government lacks the political will to do what has to be done. No simple measure will take Jamaica out of the current economic woes. It requires production, reduction of debt and hard decisions.

I have had the same medical doctor for more than 30 years. There have been occasions where she has advised me to make tough choices and literally swallow many bitter pills. The fact that she is still my doctor means that these bitter pills, though hard to swallow, worked and my confidence is unshaken. I would have to think twice about her continuing to be my doctor if she kept prescribing medication and then took it back even before I got to the pharmacy. I am not too worried about side effects; it is the cure that concerns me.

I am, etc.,

DAREN LARMOND

Optilearn1@yahoo.com