Caricom member states need to get their act together. I had the distinct pleasure of visiting a number of my sister islands at the end of which left me with mixed feelings.

I was extremely overwhelmed by the pristine and singular beauty of the islands visited, the warm and friendly hospitality of the people, the cleanliness of a number of these countries, the easy-going attitude of the people including their kindness and discipline. My concern is, however, rooted in the attitude of the airport authorities (Immigration and Customs) at some of these ports of entry.

Passengers are still being questioned about their length of stay which can be from three days (in one island) to six months in another. Of course, the level of interrogation at times is even more intense than those encountered at ports of entry in some developed states.

I, therefore, ask the question, 'Are we serious about Caribbean integration or is it just a buzzword? Is the Caricom Single Market and Economy (CSME) on or isn't it? Do we still need passports to visit our sister islands? I cannot and should not feel more welcome at the port of entry in any European or North America country than in my own Caribbean country.

Let us get our act together.

I am, etc.,

JUNIOR KERLUU

Kingston 10