THE EDITOR, Sir:I AM very happy indeed to hear of the announcement by Prime Minister P.J. Patterson of tougher crime-fighting initiatives. Now that the elections are over it is time for the political directorate of this country to live up to the promises they made during the campaign.
One of the topics of relevance addressed by both major political parties was the matter of crime and violence. The Government in its last term made some inroads but these are still not enough.
It is not enough for the five people that were killed in August Town. It is not enough for the family of seven-month-old Daniel Shirley who was shot in West Kingston.
The Government has a responsibility not only to reassure the business community of this country of a safe environment but to all Jamaicans, the majority of whom live in fear of being the next victim in the country's unacceptable crime wave.
After many years in office the time has come for less talk and promises and more action. We the people believe in this Government, otherwise, it would not have been given another term. But there are areas where improvements need to take place and we will not accept anything less than that which we deserve - a peaceful Jamaica for all, regardless of political and other differences.
That said, the people of this country must understand that the job that is required to reclaim Jamaica from the hands of criminals will dictate that much of the freedoms that we currently enjoy may have to be limited. The process must be a collaborative effort requiring the input of all those who love this great country. The time is now at hand and the people of Jamaica and the Government alike need now to become partners pursuing a common goal.
I am, etc.,
ANTOINE NEMBHARD
Executive member, People's
National Party (Region 3)
Youth Organisation
