In response to David Pearson's letter of April 27, I wish to state that no where in my conversation with Maurice Foster on KLAS FM recently, did I suggest, in any way, shape or form that inner-city residents were not good productive citizens of our society.

I was merely responding to Foster's question on how sports had assisted young, underprivileged youth in making social advancements in society. All I have are examples that I have heard of and seen in Trench Town. Sportsmen of the quality of Oniel Gordon, 'Collie' Smith, Carl Brown, Lloyd 'Respic' Morgan and Herbert 'Dago' Gordon, just to name a few, have used sports as an opportunity to advance themselves and improve their standard of living. These individuals have become beacons of inspiration and even role models to youngsters in the inner-city communities.

Surely, you must understand that not everyone can move out of inner-city dwellings, especially when you to take into consideration the recent startling announcement by Housing Minister Horace Chang that about a third of our nation's population is squatting.

It would be naive for any well-thinking Jamaica to believe that decent, law-abiding citizens don't reside in our inner-city communities. The point must be made, however, that through sports, individuals such as Shelly-Ann Fraser, Melaine Walker and many more too numerous to count, have got an opportunity either to get tertiary-level education or improve their living standards.

Growing up as young man I recall so vividly watching Professor Rex Nettleford making the statement on the then JBC commentary programme that "poverty is not an excuse for (a lack of) common decency and ambition". It is in recognition of this fact and the teachings of the Reverend Father Hugh Sherlock why I continue to help underprivileged youngsters to take opportunities with both hands when their God-given talent in sports and specifically football will help advance them in life. I hope this properly contextualises my conversation with my good friend, Maurice Foster.

I am, etc.,

ANDREW PRICE

andrew.price@wrayandnephew.com

National Marketing Manager

J.Wray & Nephew Limited