The Editor, Sir,

The Nobel Peace Prize has been awarded to former U.S. Vice-President Albert Arnold Gore, and the UN Inter Governmental panel on climate change (IPCC).

They were awarded because they brought environmental issues to centre stage in global political affairs. However, I find it rather strange why the Nobel Peace Prize committee awarded this prize to a person and organisation that have not found a cure or solution for climate change or bring peace between two countries planning World War III.

Climate change has been with us for some time now. Here in Jamaica, it started showing its effects 28 years ago. On June 12, 1979, there was flooding in St Elizabeth and straight through western Jamaica.

We've seen hurricanes, extreme drought conditions and gradual rising of sea water levels.

As far as I am concerned, the awardees have been awarded for their concerns and positions on the world stage, with the hope that they might find a solution to this ever increasing climate problem.

The Gleaner editorial dated October 17 claims that Jamaica, with most of her population living near the coast, will suffer more serious effects from climate change.

The editorial is right but we who live here already knew that 28 years ago.

I am etc

BALDWIN COLLINS

Newmarket

St Elizabeth