The comment by Kevin Lacey of the Canadian Taxpayers Federation, that the South West Shore Development Agency “spent like drunken sailors while the government kept plying them with booze” (Aug. 4 article), is a personal slight to every sailor, both serving and those who have served. I don’t know if Mr. Lacey has ever been to sea or what his background is, and really don’t care. He has proven only that he knows nothing about sailors, especially Canadian ones.

I suggest that he get hold of the Maritime Forces Atlantic Commander, Rear Admiral Dave Gardam, and pay a visit to one of Canada warships to see how professional they are. Just in case he doesn’t know it, the Royal Canadian Navy is rated as one of the best in the world. The men and women who serve in the RCN deserve better than hearing comments by one who has most likely never spent a day at sea. I don’t know anything about the Canadian Taxpayers Federation or what its mandate is, and I believe now there are a whole lot of sailors who don’t care either.

Earle Corn, Lieutenant (N), retired, Lower Sackville