We often lament the lack of a leadership in our country and point a finger at members of government. But I tell you, Omar Azan, head of the Jamaica Manufacturers' Asso- caition, made me cringe recently.

Lack of understanding

Azan's lack of understanding of the basic rules of cause and effect as it relates to monetary and fiscal policy was evident. His scant regard for important systems and institutions was clear. His request, nay, demand, belies the basic principles of economics and the core purposes and functions of the central bank. He does not seem to know the difference between a merchant bank and the central bank.

His attack on the governor of the Bank of Jamaica regarding access to loans at five per cent shows poor judgement and reasoning as he is introducing a line which has nothing to do with the bank's ability to bail out the manufacturing centre. If the governor has access to loans, granted from resources other than those allocated to keep the country afloat, it is that which enables Audley Shaw to negotiate loans for us on the international money market.

Sweat, blood, discipline and a whole lot of thought went into making the net international reserves what it is today. Let's not wipe it out in less than a quarter of the time it took to take it to where it is. If that is interfered with for the wrong purposes, a lot more than the manufacturing sector will be at stake.

I am, etc.,

ROHANE RIGUER

rohanegargantuan@yahoo.co.nz