The Editor, Sir.,

The suggestion by Mr Waite entitled 'Waite bats for youths' is commendable, but I do believe parents should take some responsibility for their children's education and future well being. Why not institute a piggy bank savings account for each child from birth? One hundred dollars per week over 22 years comes to $114,400, and that is without any accrued interest.

Even though Mr Waite is advocating this programme chiefly for parents who fall below the poverty line, a forced contribution from all parents could make them think twice before having too many children. Why should other already overtaxed people pay for the consequences of their sexual pleasures. This would only serve to reinforce the idea that "is aright man, di govament will look afta dem" and they will continue to have more children than they can afford.

Mandatory

Esther Tyson wrote in Sunday's paper as well, under the heading 'Make fathers' registration mandatory' and I agree with her totally. No birth certificates should be issued for virgin births. These men will have the money to buy cigarettes, alcohol and lottery tickets on a regular basis. Make it mandatory for them as well to save $100 per week for each child they produce. They have a choice: pay for condoms or pay the tax.

I am, etc.,

FAY BANGERTER

jewelhomes@mail.infochan.com