It would be remiss of me to refrain from submitting an answer to your correspondent whose letter was in The Royal Gazette 25 August 2000 calling himself or herself `Tax Payer'. I having been in building almost all of my life even through primary and high school and as a career since my father was a builder during my boyhood, remain close to the trade. I know most of the building fraternity. Tax Payer by that letter knows nothing about the subject but still spouted condemnation of our Bermudian drywallers because of a public protest against foreigners imported to do the work. I, being familiar with the quality of work the Bermudians, agree with them.

It is my opinion the only capability that letter writer has is how to be contemptuous of we Bermudians, whether he or she is Bermudian or not, due to nervousness. It is inconceivable that foreigners had to be imported to correct work done by Bermudians.

In my experience and observations at least 85 percent of our Bermudian building personnel exhibit great capability and efficiency. I would like to know of any country or countries that surpass that.

ROSS TUZO Warwick Seize the opportunity August 27, 2000 Dear Sir, With the continued irrelevancy of the United Bermuda Party an established fact; an historical opportunity now presents itself for the Progressive Labour Party.

It is in my opinion that the party must now utilise this opportunity to revitalise itself and foster a greater sense of democracy in the party by wresting control of an institution that has been under the vice-like grip of a self-serving minority, for far too long.

If we are truly to provide the benefits of `Progressive' government to the Bermudian people we should do no less.

ROLFE PATTON COMMISSIONG Hamilton A poor team performance August 23, 2000 Dear Sir, While criticism is often such an unproductive pursuit, I feel that the Bermuda Olympic Association has been consistently weak in their public support and promotion of the athletes going to the Olympic Games, the Sydney occasion being no exception. There obviously needs to be changes made among their ranks and a new commitment made to encouraging, developing and supporting those who dedicate themselves to the rigors of qualifying to represent Bermuda in the world arena. The plastic containers which appeared last week (mid-August) on the counter-tops of some retailers with no more fanfare than a little label asking for donations, further reflect the meagre effort that has been made on behalf of our ambassadors. I know we can do better! KIM SMITH Pembroke