?I am sick and tired of talking. I have said all I had to say?, a rude Jayraj Woochit told me when I phoned him for an interview. As irritated as I was when he so impolitely declined, I must admit I can understand where the man is coming from.

Not that I think he should be able to cop out so easily when he has just been given a lease to occupy part of an islet that belongs to you and I; Mr Woochit should remember he lives in a democracy and that every government decision and action should be open to scrutiny. Regardless of how tired - or cross - he is.

Woochit?s friends in government should explain the concept to him. It?s not that hard, really. It?s called transparency and accountability.

So what exactly are the rest of us complaining about? That Jayraj Woochit got a lease to occupy part of Gabriel Island? Why in heavens shouldn?t he? Because he has no experience in catering? Because he is not a big enough player? Come off it!

Unless and until it is proven that Woochit has been favoured at the expense of others on account of his political allegiances, I don?t see where the problem is.

It could be argued that the lease is ridiculously low - Rs 60,000 a year. That would be a valid argument especially as government is going on and on about the fact that "real" market rates should apply to prime land. Rightly so but why should this sauce for the goose not apply to the gander? I dare hope the lease price will be increased next year. I?m sure Mr Woochit would have made sufficient money to fill the state coffers by then.

As far as the "environment" argument is concerned, it leaves me speechless so loaded is it with hypocrisy! We have been consistently disturbing the flora and fauna on Gabriel Island for a while. Boats take tourists and locals there on a daily basis and although most companies insist that food be served onboard, a few irresponsible ones have started their barbecues on the beach.

And we?re worried today that the flora and fauna will be disturbed? It already is! For sure it?s bound to get worse but that?s the choice we have made, isn?t it?

I privately laugh when I hear "ecology" arguments when all the while we wholehearted approve of the seafood industry. This industry entails that we deplete our seas of as many of fish as possible so we can eat them and make money. I have heard not one protest from the so-called nature lovers on this one. On top of this, we dare be surprised when we realise there could be a shortage of fish and that this could rock the industry. Any wonder when we?re killing them all? It?s a good thing double standards haven?t killed anyone so far.