Treat us right
published: Saturday | August 2, 2003

THE EDITOR, Sir:

IF ONE should examine most of the wholesale/retail outlets in the Cross Roads, Downtown Kingston and Spanish Town areas, one would realise that they all have something in common - they are owned and operated by Chinese or people of Chinese extract. Let me hasten to say that I welcome anyone, be it Chinese, Indian, Caucasian or African, who is willing to invest in Jamaica.

My concern lies with the scant regard and gross disrespect that is meted to consumers when they enter these places of business. First, the moment one enters through the doors one must endure the close scrutiny of not only the security officer but the mean glare of who seem to be extended family members of these Chinese business owners. Second, if an item is purchased and is later discovered to be unsuitable, even when a suitable replacement cannot be supplied, there is absolutely no refund, and this is non-negotiable. If one should try to argue how unfair this policy (which is never communicated before purchase, by posted sign or otherwise), is and you would find it difficult to continue to do business with them, they will blankly tell you that they do not care.

It would be interesting to know if any real investment is being made in the Jamaican economy by these so-called foreign investors. Yes, their goods are sold at a reasonable price, but what percentage of after-sale profit is re-invested in Jamaica? Has anyone ever seen these people put on a treat for children in the community that has made them so successful? Or does anyone know of any charitable institution that these entrepreneurs have contributed to?

It might be argued that they provide employment, but try speaking to their employees. They will tell you how poorly they are paid; they are given only a few minutes for lunch break and are not even allowed to go out to purchase their own lunches. In addition they are treated like common criminals, as they are constantly being watched and talked down to. It perhaps explains why they are the only ones who always have a sign on their doors advertising available vacancies.

I do not mean to sound crude or inhospitable, but as a consumer I am tired of being victimised and treated like an alien in my own country. I am tired of foreigners exploiting our resources in the name of investment and getting away scot free. Is there any redress? It is bad enough to be treated like a suspect in a foreign country, but must we also undergo the same treatment in our own island? God forbid! Will the powers that be say something, better yet, do something, and quickly.

I am, etc.,

MINETH V. SUTHERLAND

21 Renfield Drive

Kingston 20

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