THE EDITOR, Sir:

Jamaica is a nation in crisis, the heart of which is our economic malaise. There has been growing controversy over the Government's decision to take nearly $46 billion from the National Housing Trust (NHT) over a four-year period for budgetary support.

The NHT is an agency of the Government, so technically the funds are the property of the Government. To hoard this money while the nation is in need is idolatry.

Scripture tells us that "the idols of the nations are silver and gold, the work of men's hands" (Psalm 135:15). Let us be realistic. The money the Government will use is the surplus, not the deposits.

I appeal to those persons who are opposing the use of the funds and instigating unwarranted confusion to stop and consider the needs of the country.

CYNTHIA LAWRENCE-

JENNINGS

Hellshire Heights

Greater Portmore PO