THE EDITOR, Sir:

ISSUES OF bail are governed by the Bail Act of 2000 (as amended), and the regulations pursuant thereto.

The fact that the former permanent secretary in the Ministry of Justice stood bail for the accused Carlos Hill was deemed, by you, newsworthy enough for front-page coverage.

It seems to me that Mr Robert Rainford should be commended for coming forward as a surety.

Are we soon to see the day when it is tantamount to a criminal or wrongful act for someone to stand surety for a relative, colleague, associate or friend in need?

The regulations under the Bail Act list the persons who are exempt from providing surety.

The permanent secretary in the Ministry of Justice is not one of the exempt persons. However, an attorney on the record for the accused is.

PATRICK DELANO BAILEY

Attorney-at-law

Kingston 6