The Editor, Sir:

I wish to express concern on behalf of the Air Jamaica Privatisation Committee, which I chair, about a misleading story - headlined 'Air Jamaica Sold ...' - which appeared in the Saturday, July 4, issue of The Gleaner.

I characterise the story as 'misleading' because Air Jamaica has not yet been sold. It was stated clearly in a news update which was issued June 30, that the privatisation committee has made a recommendation regarding a possible transaction. The press release also made it clear that a decision on that recommendation had to be made by Cabinet and the board of Air Jamaica. Neither of those activities has as yet taken place.

No contracts signed

Additionally, both the headline and the other sections of The Gleaner's July 4 story - which named two firms which "have bought the country's national carrier, Air Jamaica" - give the impression that the privatisation committee and the minister have misled the country by executing a sale, while advising the country that only a recommendation, which is to be decided upon, has been made. This is far from true and I use this opportunity to reiterate that such formal approvals have not been made and that no contracts have as yet been signed with anyone.

Recent experience with other privatisation efforts should make everyone aware of just how carefully negotiations of this nature must be handled. The negotiations to privatise Air Jamaica are at an extremely delicate stage and the confidentiality arrangements remain in place until initial agreements are signed, key stakeholders are brought up to date on the possible implications of the sale and there is final closure.

While we understand the desire of media houses to 'scoop' each other on matters of national interest, such as the Air Jamaica privatisation, we urge that care be taken to ensure that nothing is done to derail what is a critical transaction for and on behalf of all the people of Jamaica.

I am, etc.,

DENNIS LALOR

Chairman

Air Jamaica

Privatisation Committee