'We need more jobs for the young people'

Published in the Jamaica Gleaner: Wednesday | August 29, 2007

While many young people seem unconcerned about the possible fate of the JLP's Franklyn Witter and the PNP's Norman Horne, there was no reluctance when it comes to outlining the needs of the constituency.

"We need more jobs for the young people, better roads for the farmer, a better water supply scheme for the parish and less poverty in the country," said Charmaine Simpson, of Nief Mountain. "We have become so accustomed to poor representation that it is difficult to support either of the two parties."

Sentiments of disenchantment

Also echoing the sentiments of disenchantment with the political system is returning resident Joyce Swaby, also of Neif Mountain. According to her, the only time politicians are seen in her area is at election time, which she finds totally unacceptable.

Bill Johnson's August 11 and 12 constituency poll found that there is little difference in how residents in South East St. Elizabeth view PNP leader Portia Simpson Miller and JLP leader Bruce Golding.

Fifty per cent of the 480 respondents have a favourable view of Mrs. Simpson Miller against 49 per cent for Mr. Golding; while 47 per cent said that the JLP leader would be a better Prime Minister against 42 per cent for the PNP leader.

Personal analysis

"I think Mrs. Simpson Miller is quite a charming woman and you can't help but liking her," said Carlene Simms, who works at a processing plant in Junction. "However, Mr. Golding seems more of a statesman and I think he would do a better job of leading Jamaica."

"The PNP is tired after being in power for so long and has become too complacent," said Southfield farmer Janet Brooks. "I believe that we are likely to get much more out of a JLP government at this time."

Retrograde step

However, for vendor Nadine Smith, of Junction, while she has not received any personal benefits from the PNP, she thinks the country has benefited immensely and she believes that putting the JLP in power would be a retrograde step.

"We are a farming community and there is not a single farmer whose life has not gotten better under the PNP," said Ms. Smith. "I can understand the concerns of the many youngsters who are crying out for a change, but they need to be more patient and try to understand the system."