Brian Bonitto, Jamaica Editor - Overseas Publications

( L - R ) Taylor and McBean

Trafi who? Never heard of him!

For one-fifth of Jamaicans, the Trafigura Beheer scandal, which has rocked the governing People's National Party (PNP) for six weeks, remains a mystery according to the latest Gleaner-commissioned Bill Johnson poll.

The findings of the poll reveal that 21 per cent of respondents had never heard about the controversy surrounding the $31 million contribution by the Dutch-based oil company, Trafigura to the PNP.

But, how could this be, given the prominence the media gave to the story?

Dr. David McBean, president of the Media Association of Jamaica (MAJ) was amazed at the findings, as in his view, the story dominated mainstream media for several weeks.

"That's puzzling to me, but it also raises a few questions," said Dr. McBean, who is also the chief executive officer for CVM Communications Group.

"Are these (the 21 per cent) not accessing mainstream media as we know it, or is it that they have tuned out to hard news?"

"Interestingly, the 79 per cent (those in the know) mirrors the literacy rate ... but this cannot be conclusive because there is access to news on radio and television as well," he continued.

Dr. McBean pointed out that he would need to undertake a thorough analysis of the poll results in order to arrive at a clear position.

On the other hand, UWI lecturer/ social scientist, Dr. Orville Taylor, has put forward the view that perhaps the 79 per cent of the respondents who are aware of the Trafigura controversy may be among those who have a particular interest in current affairs.

In fact, he said Jamaicans have become hungrier for information as it helps them to arrive at decisions on political matters. This hunger is evident by the high level of public participation on the daily talk shows.

Why then do the informed Jamaicans remain passive on political issues?

Lack of belief

"That's part of human nature - but it also shows a lack of belief in the political system - the way politicians have behaved in the past has caused a large number of Jamaicans to lose faith in them," Dr. Taylor asserted.

But, for bartender Joan Campbell, bars are the common man's Parliament where various views are articulated.

But, what are the matters placed on the agenda for discussions?

"Is mainly sex them talk bout at my bar," said the 30-year-old St. Catherine resident

What about politics?

"Not where I live!"

Ever heard about Trafigura?

"No, tell me 'bout it."

It is some money the Government ...

"Oh! - the $31 million whe gone missing!"

The poll has a plus or minus three per cent margin of error and 1,008 individuals were interviewed islandwide on October 28 and 29.