Act of God or that of man?

THE EDITOR, Madam:

The edicts of politicians are easily erased by the reality on the ground. A candle can still light the darkness, admittedly in a small way than an electrical bulb. However, the candle left unattended is far more dangerous and can burn down the whole house.

Tariffs are expounded for liberation day and a container decided too to release itself from ship slavery. Ships have a horrific association with our people historically. The container decided one way or another to shift this long-time trauma with a welcome gift of repatriation goodies. Jamaica attracts many colourful to our beaches, and now a container allegedly with frozen chicken. Direct entry, avoiding all port of entry requirements, bingo and “Christmas” to the target needing belly market.

A round of applause, it took an inanimate object with the winds and waves to realise the destitution in Jamaica. We are not sure if the consumers of the contents of the container however will land more to the pearly gates. Early days yet.

The shipping entity of course is fully responsible for the lost cargo and container. The container brings hope, not just chicken as a search on social media revealed commentators requesting a container. The demand that possibly the sea could bring more to be converted into houses, schools and other places of business.

The swimmers in their huge numbers point to the only venue for recreation for our communities. A large number of persons in the middle of the work week. Strong men that need to be placed into employment like health care and other lifesaving industries. A hospital for the 15th parish?

Social media abounds with many conspiracy theories. “Memba plane crash and now container jus float up”? Many condemn the chicken collectors; others have placed ads noting that their cook shops are the best and do not serve “container chicken”. Others attest that the container was raided way out in the sea and was rock ice and that it is “the best chicken ever”. Several have given advice menus on how to “cure” the chicken. While arguing that Jamaicans are the most “unserious people”, the commentator treats the viewing audience with to how to do a beautiful hairstyle with jelled edges.

Branding issues are at the forefront. It must now be a nightmare for suppliers and food retail outlets as the conspiracy theories are not ruling out “biological warfare” and “mass infection” in the population. There may be financial fallout as many will avoid eating chicken for some time to come.

A deep investigation with recommendations to the public will have to be carefully and immediately disseminated. Chicken is the meat of choice for Jamaicans, we still choose chicken even in this Lenten season. Could be worse... “God does see our seas and knows...” ... Oops one video did ave John Crow ah fly ova head.

CATHERINE NEIL

stcatherineneill22@yahoo.

com