More has to be done locally to boost production. There is another side to local responsibility I'd like to focus on though.

In a free trade world we can't expect not to import, if we hope to export. As such, I do not mind seeing foreign goods on our shelves. I just don't purchase them - not when local alternatives are available.

Be sensible

As a consumer, I read labels and I ask questions. I do this on the premise that, even though the imported item may be cheaper than the local one, an increase in demand for imported goods equals an increase in the demand for the US dollar, which equals an increase in the cost of acquiring the US dollar, which translates into an increase in the general cost of local production and consumption. So grapes are nice, but I don't buy them, I purchase pineapples instead.

I may be just one drop of rain, but I'll do my part. And if each Jamaican does his/her part, we may end up with a shower, which can do so much more. Let's be sensible.

I am, etc.,

CHARLES EVANs

charock01@yahoo.com