The Editor, Sir:

I am particularly annoyed that the issue of funding regarding the plans of the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP), keeps arising even after the debates put on by the National Debates Commission. It is also raised by politicians, media and by citizens. It is an issue which I think detracts from several other critical points of interest.

To clear the air, I refer all those who are interested to the JLP manifesto, in which pages 210-212, containing 21 points, are dedicated to that precise question.

If someone is unfamiliar with the acronyms BOOT, EARN, HOPE, RIDE, then they have not read the manifesto.

The answer to the multibillion dollar question is there, and it makes sense; and there is no mention of new taxation nor borrowing. We need to debate whether the points listed make sense, rather than repeating the question itself which has already been answered.

Other elements to mention

After perusing the JLP manifesto, I found many other aspects that I have never heard mentioned by the media, such as case studies from other nations to back the approaches to financial strategy.

Creative solutions like HOPE savings plan, helping hand, county councils, and HOUSE have also attracted very little public attention.

The same is true for the People's National Party (PNP) manifesto. I see no mention of the Under-30 JP programme, 'Welfare toWork', CERE, and so on.

How many voters can speak on the plans either party has for gender equality, care for the elderly and disabled, or roads?

I think it is critical that everyone be willing to peruse both manifestos and listen carefully to what each party is saying regarding the issues, or else we will continue to waste time asking questions that have already been answered.

Exactly what the parties offer

On this note, it is interesting that the manifestos represent exactly what the parties offer.

The JLP: a new and radical change, the manifesto filled with new initiatives, evidence and methodology.

The PNP: currently in power and progressing somewhat with better to come, their manifesto mainly using phrases such as "improve the ..." and "continue to ..." and, of course, many pictures of Portia Simpson Miller.

The race is truly between radical but uncertain, change and the present. We must be thoroughly informed before we make the choice.

I am, etc.,

MARC RAMSAY

marcramsay@gmail.com

Kingston 6

Via Go-Jamaica