By now all Jamaicans and persons across the world are in agreement - these are indeed perilous times with our local economy in a tumult suffering the after effects of the collapse of the mortgage industry in one of the world's major industrialised countries.

We are now being bombarded with reports about a lack of investment, productivity and demands for more money. Now we are facing even greater jeopardy with the decision to create a higher Jamaican dollar note.

I, as well as many other Jamaicans, fear for the future of our country as now the big question for the Government is: Who will provide the demand for such a note to sap up all the liquidity which it will create?

Flag of patriotism

We are a people of great vigour and my flag of patriotism is still flying high from our 2008 victories at the Beijing Olympics. This island is indeed capable of utilising many opportunities which still lie within our reach. Marcus Garvey, for example, was able, single-handedly, to create a great movement which changed the views of the people worldwide and inspired other great minds to act accordingly.

We have done many great things in the past and the present situation should be no different in terms of our people rallying to find solutions. For we never needed superpower help to set world records!

I say we need to consider our options of increasing our country's value and marketability as we are recognised worldwide for our music, natural beauty, culture and beaches. These resources have not been destroyed with the onset of the global crisis and our government needs to take the time to ask people's views on what to do.

The Government should consider carefully its decisions.

I am, etc.,

Dr HERBERT GAGULA

najimesi2000@yahoo.com

Spanish Town

St Catherine