Don't put Parliament in Heroes Park

THE EDITOR, Sir:

In hosting Tuesday's town hall meeting on the proposed redevelopment of National Heroes Park and the construction of the new Parliament building within the Government Oval Zone, the RJRGLEANER Communications Group did a great public service while setting an example of public consultation which Government would do well to emulate.

However, many of us who attended the meeting left with the impression that, because this ill-conceived idea has bipartisan support, it will happen regardless of the opposing views and concerns expressed by the public, relevant Jamaican professionals and, most important, the community residents directly affected. In other words, it is a done deal and all Government wishes to 'consult' on are the details. That will not do.

The Wolmer's Trust, while welcoming the redevelopment of National Heroes Park as a part of the wider redevelopment of downtown Kingston, remains opposed to siting the new Parliament building within the park itself. Our position has been consistent across administrations. We will not go quietly.

Milton Samuda

Chairman

Wolmer's Trust