While I acknowledge Bob Marley's international acclaim, I do not associate that with respect in the context of a former prime minister on the international scene. Respect has to do with much more than the production of music and lyrics or being known worldwide. Michael Jackson is well known for great music and lyrics but I doubt that his image would ever be contemplated for use on a US bank note!

Bob has been honoured with issue of commemorative stamps and, of course, the prestigious Order of Merit. I think he has been adequately honoured and his legacy enshrined.

It is unlikely that images of deceased persons outside of governance or 'hero' types will appear on any of the bank notes.

10 bank notes

Jamaica has used 10 bank notes ranging from the 50 cents with national hero Marcus Garvey to the $1,000 with former PM Michael Manley. Of those 10, only four are still in circulation, two with former prime ministers, one PNP and JLP on the $1,000 and $50, respectively. National heroes adorn the others.

Now that all our heroes are identified, I believe that political consideration has much to do with whose image will be placed on bank notes as the need arises. There will always be a race between the JLP and PNP for pre-eminence on the road to posterity. At present, it is a dead heat, 1-1, between the parties from which the images on notes in circulation are selected.

This was an opportunity for the JLP to move ahead and, indeed, they took the opportunity - that is also in keeping with the custom. Thus, the late PM Shearer's image became the obvious choice, sliding the JLP ahead 2-1 in the race (Shearer $5,000, Sangster $50 - JLP; Manley $1,000 - PNP).

Shearer was a great servant of the people, particularly in the trade union field and later as PM. Although his tenure was relatively short, the honour of his image being used is well deserved.

I am, etc.,

NORMAN LEE

namronlee@rogers.com

Ontario

Canada