This is a letter to Prime Minister Bruce Golding and Opposition leader, Portia Simpson Miller.

I am astounded at the amount of debt that Jamaica has accumulated over the years. Jamaica is in financial trouble and a way has to be found to get us out of this mess. My suggestion to both of you (as there could be a change of government at the next election) for your consideration are as follows.

It seems that a lot of Jamaicans who should be paying income tax are not doing so. Everyone who is earning a salary/wage should pay something.

Who are these people? Choose any town in Jamaica and make a list of all the businesses in that town; also check their employees. Those businesses need to pay income tax as should the people whom they employ.

Taxi/bus operators and higglers should also be made to pay income tax. Get their details when they apply for their licences. Every private doctor, optician, dentist and accountant should be included. Businesses and shops in the country places could be collated using the format for compiling the voters' list.

Tax form

Compliance may be a little difficult as most Jamaicans enjoy not paying income tax and completing a tax form will be confusing to many, but the form could be simplified so that it could be more easily understood.

Mr Golding, you should revisit the free health-care policy to make it available only for those 18 years old and younger and for those over 65. The GCT it is a good way of earning revenue for the Government; however, this could be lowered and more items exempted - but that is only if everyone who is liable to pay tax, does pay his/her taxes.

Mr Golding, Mrs Simpson Miller you were not born in the Jamaica Labour Party/People's National Party, you were born Jamaicans, so for the sake of our beloved Jamaica, please take a serious look at my suggestions. Help Jamaica.

I am, etc.,

ERNEST CAMPBELL

ernist@ernist.orangehome.co.uk

Oldham, UK