During difficult times, we are all asked to pull our belts a little tighter. We as Jamaicans are no different, as the expectations are the same around the globe. Jamaica as a developing nation has a harder time dealing with this difficult situation as to where to cut and what to do next.

I am on the verge of calling our government feckless, as I have watched from the sidelines as a supporter, nevertheless, and seen where they have fumbled the ball over and over. How can a government of the people and for the people elected by the people treat the people as strangers?

With the Budget issues that are upon us, the Government has saddled the poor with the bulk of responsibility that should be spread over the entire population. The people of Payne Land, Drewsland, Flankers, Linstead, St Joseph Road, Tivoli Gardens, Rema, Glendevon and many more poor areas are in a state of shock as to where to turn. People wanted a change that is why they voted the way they did not to be burden with more taxes and less services.

gov't needs to cut back

The bottom line is that we are still enduring a national recession that affects every business and family in our country. Jamaican taxpayers - that is, businesses and families - cannot afford to pay for big government spending and, rightfully also expects the MPs to do what we are forced to do: cut back on expenses. Instead, the Budget announced by the Government increases taxes on businesses and the country's poorest residents, raises a wide variety of fees and borrows a lot of money that we will eventually have to repay - with interest.

Yet, the Government still pays for gardeners, housekeepers and drivers for MPs and will tax salt, bread, flour, sugar, our basic amenities. Mr Golding, Sir, we are as much a part of this country as the rich are. We all love our country and we are not the ones that leave as we cannot afford the cost of visas, please stop taxing us to death.

I am, etc.,

BERITA ROWE

roweb2@southernct.edu