THE EDITOR, Sir:

There is no record, nor can there be, of me showing the Most Honourable Edward Seaga any form of disrespect. As a host of the 'Breakfast Club', I had conversations with Mr Seaga on a raft of issues over the period I hosted the programme. Over the period, he was one of my favourite guests. I continue to hold the view that he is the "last great leader the JLP has had".

My opinion of him is part of public record, including various written contributions I have made and which have been published by The Gleaner, the first being in 2002, in the lead-up to the last general election which Mr Seaga contested.

My favourite memory of his public outings was when, in a discussion on campus, he kept referring to the NDM as the MPM. A student pointed it out and asked why he repeatedly referred to the NDM in that way. His wry and hilarious response was that both went around and collected garbage. A pregnant remark if ever there was one; and an illustration of wit that few in politics can claim.

listened attentively

As I see it, this last round of commentary evolved from a comment made by James Robertson at Tuesday's sitting.

I listened keenly and respectfully to every word Mr Seaga said. His presentation lived up to my expectation. At no time during or after his presentation did I disrespect him. I am certain I heard his remarks more keenly than many who are now claiming that I disrespected him.

I believe Mr Seaga to be one of our most colourful political leaders and one who has made a permanent impression in our country's political DNA.

The fact that Mr Seaga only led the Jamaica Labour Party to one victory in contested general elections speaks volumes as to the ongoing debate as to the quality and value of his contributions and how the Jamaican people revere him.

RAYMOND PRYCE

MP, NE St Elizabeth