The Editor, Sir:

In a characteristically challenging and engaging address to Parliament on Sept. 27, Prime Minister Bruce Golding was a forceful advocate not only for the construction of new accommodation for the legislature - a matter which I believe has general public support - but also for the new facilities to be developed at the existing location and environs.

However strong the Prime Minister's personal conviction, or bilateral consensus, may be on the matter of location, the powers that be ought to be mindful of other views that might be held, equally strongly, in the wider national community.

Long-cherished dream

Specifically, even as we acknowledge the important rationale behind the Prime Minister's choice, we still should not lightly cast aside the long-cherished dream of many Jamaicans of seeing our Parliament building - the veritable House of the People - established at Heroes Circle, designed and constructed to stand the test of the ages.

The People's House, a major national monument, would be in close proximity to other important symbols of our national unity - the pantheon of National Heroes and the tombs of other nation builders, and would together serve to lift the patriotic spirit of our people. This could be enhanced over time with the addition of other facilities which would help make Heroes Circle a cultural and political centre that would be like a magnet to locals and foreign visitors alike.

There are also at least three practical issues to consider. First, Heroes Circle is already in the public domain, obviating the need to acquire land now in private hands. Second, the general citizenry would enjoy friendlier access to the People's House, without the hassle of the downtown traffic. Third, as long envisioned, most, if not all, the government ministries could be established around the Circle, saving on time and cost of ministers and officials con-stantly criss-crossing the city to meet with one another.

Suffice it to say, at least, that the Prime Minister should open up this one-time important national decision to public debate before concluding the matter. I believe this would be in line with the Prime Minister's own outlook on governance, as I understand it. Perhaps a Green Paper tabled in both Houses of Parliament may provide a good basis for generating such public discussion.

I am, etc.,

RODERICK RAINFORD

Maryland district,

St. Andrew