The Editor, Sir:

After reading the Jamaica Labour Party's (JLP) manifesto, I was very pleased that the party, should it become the next government, would make the Bank of Jamaica an independent entity. I say such a move was long overdue.

If our country's economy is to improve, institutions like this must be depoliticised and have the power to make unwavering and independent decision. Over the years, we have witnessed the fighting between the Minister of Finance and the Bank of Jamaica, which has culminated in poor and disastrous macroeconomic decisions.

At this critical time in our nation's history, when our financial houseis in such disarray, and which has caused our dollar to be roller-coasting without an end in sight, it is about time that we come to our senses and separate monetary policy from fiscal policy.

After 18 years of being led by a People's National Party government, it is surprising that such a thought was never contemplated.

I am, etc.,

Dr. MICHAEL THOMPSON

mthompson@aol.com

2500 Hollywood Blvd

Homestead, Florida

Via Go-Jamaica