JG - Diaspora adds to Jamaica budget

From my archive of press clippings:

Jamaica Gleaner

Diaspora adds to Jamaica budget

published: Wednesday January 11, 2006


THE EDITOR, Sir:

I AM not a fan of Edward Seaga. As a matter of fact I have disagreed with most of his policies as PM and Leader of the Opposition, but I am in total agreement with his commentary on remittances and its impact on the Jamaican economy. Most Jamaicans in the diaspora have always believed that we are a significant force in the Jamaican economy, not only from the hard currency, but the food and clothing that is sent to the island in the countless barrels over the years.

RECOGNISE THE CONTRIBUTION

I believe that the Government needs to recognise the contribution of the two-plus million Jamaicans living outside Jamaica. We did not abandon our country when we chose to migrate. Maybe Mr. Seaga in further commentaries could also speak to the impact that Jamaicans in the diaspora have on tourism, one of the other major sources of foreign exchange.

We can be rewarded with greater involvement in the political process like voting in the national elections. Other countries have been doing it for years.

I am, etc.,

LASCELLES ABOAGYE

laboa3757@aol.com

South Floral Park, NY

Via Go-Jamaica