November 28, 2001

Dear Sir,

Most Bermudians under the age of 40 probably think a Visa is a plastic credit card to use on their shopping trips to the US.

What they probably don't realise is that the name Visa was cleverly highjacked by a banking group, who needed a catchy name for their travel related credit card division.

In fact a Visa is a specific permission to visit a given country, for a given period of time, for a given reason... and that is what Bermudians will likely require in order to visit the US in future if we carry on with this Caricom membership foolishness.

Most West Indian travellers have to line up at an American Consulate and make their case, so entry into the US is certainly not automatic for them.

In view of the events of September 11, scrutiny of foreigners travelling to the US will be greatly stepped up and 60,000 Bermudians who may think they are special, might find it a lot tougher to make their case to the US as members of CARICOM.

We take so much for granted now.

Some of our leaders publicly abuse Americans and think they do it with impunity.

Well, first thing the Americans will do is refuse Visas, and then other than an occasional flight to the UK and Canada, Bermudians will be left to stew in their own juice.

Think carefully before it is too late.

Say no to Caricom.

ROCKFISH

Paget