Shouldn't Jersey follow Dubai's tourism lead?

From Mark Dunlop.

FURTHER to your recent letters regarding the focus on our economy, I totally agree with James Amy (JEP, 4 October) pointing out how important the wealthy residents are to Jersey.

Not only do they contribute by way of guaranteed substantial income tax, but in fact, more importantly, they create a large amount of employment and support to local businesses outside the finance sector.

I don’t think anyone has any doubts as to how important the finance industry is to Jersey and its economic survival, but at a time of such unrest, should the politicians take time to step back and look at the bigger picture? And instead of throwing so much cash and support at building office blocks on the Waterfront, or being re-elected, look for a back-up plan in case the credit crunch bites us on our beautiful Island, for we are not immune.

I had the pleasure on visiting Dubai recently. This in a kingdom that has looked to the future and is now no longer dependent on its number one commodity (oil) and has built up a massive tourist industry.

Should we not follow suit and reinvest in this market for a rainy day when the banks run out of money again, or shall we continue to keep our eggs in one basket? With the recent regeneration in the hotel trade, should they not get the States’ help hand in hand with finance?

Okanagan,

Rue du Hocq,

St Clement.