Unwise invitation to Haitians

The Editor, Sir:

Like many Jamaicans, I have sent money and my deepest sympathy to the people of Haiti and will continue where I can. However, I do think that the open invitation to Haitians who want to come to the island needs more thought by the Government.

Haiti, I understand, is over eight times the size of Jamaica and it has not all been destroyed. There is no difference between a tent in Jamaica and a tent in Haiti.

I also have a feeling that the Haitians would rather stay in their own country rather than come to Jamaica, where they will face a language barrier and water shortage, among other problems. We can't even offer them personal security.

It is with this in mind that I believe we should try to help by providing all the assistance we can in the rebuilding process rather than having them come here. While the Haitians are here, they will not be able to access any further help from the world community which will be far more than anything Jamaica can offer.

I am etc.,

Phil Foster

Southfield, St Elizabeth