I AM disheartened by the fact that so many persons from West Indies Alumina Company (Windalco) and Alumina Partners of Jamaica (Alpart) are being made redundant. I am also worried for those at other companies because the fate of their employment hangs in the balance.

I don't know how long this recession will last and if those people will be re-employed to these companies. I am not even certain that they have enough to sustain themselves for the next six months. Already, I know they have been trying to find alternative means of survival, but for some, without avail.

I think this is the right time for the Government to rekindle the fire of the Rural Agricultural Development Authority towards a short- and medium-term solution to the crisis.

Let us have some divisional/ parish meetings and see how best we can plant different crops to take care of our local, regional and possibly international needs. If this is done, then we do not have to worry much about the high rate of idleness of hands and what this can lead to and also to import food from overseas. I think we have enough lands, crops and now the most important resource - people.

It is probably impertinent to offer this solution, but can the manage-ment of those companies that are thinking of laying off workers do so on a phased basis? At least this will give individuals some time to think through positive, alternative solutions.

People must still be encouraged to cut back on the elaborate spending. Let us car pool or even buy some bicycles so that we can cut back on the daily use of gasolene.

While I offer these solutions, I whisper a prayer for all my brothers and sisters.

I am, etc.,

EVERTON TYNDALE

evat_78@hotmail.com

Royal Flat

Mandeville, Manchester