Wrongful portrayal of these isles, again?

I came across a recent article in London’s Independent where author Fran Abrams asserted that guest workers here do not get to enjoy the triad of paradise: sun, sea and sand. What misrepresentation where the author once again turns reason on its head. It’s smack with sensationalism and misrepresentation all the way around.

If anything, Abrams ought to know from the outset that guest workers from neighboring Asian countries aren’t here on vacation trips. They are here to work! We know that their rights are equally protected as soon as they set foot on these isles. They are dedicated and industrious workers with exemplary work ethics. But none is denied his or her rights to use leisure hours enjoying what these isles have to offer.

Now here in Mr. Abrams article is there mention that these workers are provided decent quarters, food and transportation to and from work. Nor is there any mention that on average, these women take home about $10,000 to $15,000 in savings upon expiry of their contracts or the fact that they also benefit from currency conversion given the strength of the dollar.

Nor is there mention of the NMI’s comparative advantage granted these isles under the Headnote-3a provision in the Covenant and how former Interior officials have encouraged its use to increase revenue generation here in the late eighties. Interesting that nowhere in the article is there mention how policies from the other side of the Pacific have shifted to our detriment where insensitivity to local economic conditions are forced upon us without consultation with those who will adversely be affected by it. If I may remind Mr. Abrams, “It’s the economy, stupid!”

Interesting too that despite the recent unraveling of the Don Young Committee of an alleged US Department of Interior involvement in overt political activities contrary to pertinent federal laws, it’s obvious the article is fully sanitized so that this revelation isn’t an integral part of the larger issue. It’s sickening how
“fly-by-night” journalists have joined the Army of Marianas Ruination trumpeting irresponsibility and the obvious lack of fairness in articles that apparently have been treated as gospel truth. No wonder the media has lost its credibility all over the global village.

The obvious is relegated into sensationalism in Mr. Abrams’ story. Employing simple common sense would have allowed Mr. Abrams’ nimble mind to comprehend that apparel, hotel or construction workers aren’t here on long vacation trips. They are here to work so that their families can have something better back home, i.e., sending their children to school or financing a new business venture or new family dwelling. Assorted success stories of returning workers to the Republic of China abound and their desire to return to work here once more.

In summary, perhaps it is Mr. Abrams who needs a long vacation from an honorable profession where he’s violated a basic tenet in journalism — verification! He vividly reminds me of a San Francisco Chronicle reporter who basked in the triad of paradise, looked himself in the mirror and concocted quotes from people he never even interviewed. Perhaps Mr. Abrams is adversely infected with what I call the “Marianas Bug”. This issue is far from complete and it would do you good to find out what the Don Young Committee has uncovered in recent months. Next time, bring some common sense so you wouldn’t have to scratch dirt to kick-up against our faces.

Learn to get your facts straight, Sir Lord Weed!