THE EDITOR, Sir:
I WRITE to disclose what seems to be a wicked scam. In economic terms, this may seem ludicrous. The embassy involved is representing one of the major industrialised countries of the world. Let me therefore, at the outset, explain that scams do not necessarily relate to economic gain. Scams are also used to justify an oppressive policy.
Recently, I applied for visas on behalf of my 11-year-old daughter and her sister, 24, to visit a particular country. We were told to submit a number of documents, including letters of invitation. We complied. Next we were given a date to attend the embassy for an interview. The demand came at a time when it would be extremely difficult for the parents to attend. However, we were not alarmed, because one of the applicants is an adult. In addition, the fact that the application was on behalf of both persons, they were sent to keep the appointment.
DEJECTED AND DISTRAUGHT
They returned home dejected and distraught. Some person at the country's office in Jamaica wrote that a visa could not be given, using the age-old excuse that there was no evidence that they could sustain themselves in that country; and insinuating that they would not return. The real ignominy is that this referred also to the 11-year-old child, who was not even allowed to enter the building. No official spoke with her, and in speaking with her sister, no reference was made of her. Yet this official wrote that 'in the interview' she did not provide evidence of the whereabouts of her mother, or any indication that she would not have to "depend on public funds".
DISINGENUOUS NATURE
I write this letter today because I just received further confirmation of the disingenuous nature of these "big country" people. They continue to find ways to fleece and insult the intelligence of Third World folks. My daughter and her sister have two uncles and four aunts in the country concerned. All except one, the eldest, was born in that country since their mother lived 30 years in that country before she died some 10 years ago. The invitation letter indicated these connections.
In addition to the letter of invitation, there was a letter from my daughter's school informing the embassy official that she had just been placed, via GSAT, at a reputable secondary school and was due to start attending in September.
The information I received this morning is that the official was contacted by the persons who issued the invitation and was told sorry; that he did not know the status of the applicants, and that they should re-apply. He stated that he would not recommend an appeal, because that is a lengthy process; a re-application would be quicker.
Of course, another application fee must be paid, and there is no guarantee that this person would act with any greater sense of honesty than before.
I cringe to think what impact it would have on my 11-year-old daughter should I dare to submit her to any similar disrespect from persons who still think that they are our masters and can carry out their scam at will.
I am, etc.,
LLOYD A. STANLEY
Kingston 10
