I am a concerned university student who wishes to voice her opinion on the matter of MPs salaries increase. Firstly, although not affiliated with any political party, I must agree with Audley Shaw about a performance-based pay for the politicians.

It is no secret that our economy is not growing in such a way that average Jamaicans can live relatively comfortably, rather than the 'hand to mouth' persona that our society has taken on. With this in mind, I cannot see how the Government is at a standstill in alleviating the plight of our police officers, teachers and nurses, but at the same time securing a 'cushion seat' for themselves with higher wages.

This latest action has angered me as it is becoming increasingly clear that our politicians are not for the people, as ought to be in a democratic state, but for themselves. I have considered a theory that I thought would not have been true, but the actions of our 'leaders' have forced me to bring my theory to light, as I firmly believe that all their talks about uplifting Jamaica and making it prosperous is nothing but pure 'bluff' and as we say in Jamaica "talk is cheap."

These politicians are just securing themselves in the event that our beautiful land of Jamaica falls in ruins, they have their offshore bank accounts ready and waiting. They have not considered all of us Jamaicans who will not have a safe haven because if they did, they would prolong their salary freeze at least until the economy gets to a more stable place.

- Shanique Graham, shani86_graham@hotmail.com, Greater Portmore, St. Catherine,Via Go-Jamaica

Everyone anticipates a raise in the pay at some point and for the civil servants of this country, the wait is not by far the most insulting, but indeed the offers. The Gleaner has reported that MPs would be getting an increase in their salary for work members of the country could dispute is undeserved. I prefer no particular party, only the upliftment of my country, but I'm in agreement with the Opposition spokesman on finance, Audley Shaw, that parliamentarians' salaries should be based on performance. The nurses have been working under tremendous pressure, often in uncomfortable surroundings and the salary increase offered to them is just insulting.