THE EDITOR, Sir:
A U.S. Customs officer once seized my vegetable sandwich (which was served on a flight from Montego Bay, Jamaica, to Miami, Florida) and warned me vociferously, not to take any "plant material" into the U.S. in future.
He plunged his knife through my relative's Easter bun. We smiled as if we were pleased.
In Toronto a resident can't simply paint his house with whatever colour he desires. If a river runs through your property, you can't go fishing unless you have permission. By-laws prohibit the erection of clothes lines on countless occasions. Seat-belts are not optional. Zero tolerance for sound-system night noises. Interestingly, Jamaicans comply. I haven't seen one handcart on a Toronto street nor any vendor threatening to burn legitimate businesses (buildings) if they weren't allowed to illegally vend on the streets.
I onced received a parking ticket for illegal parking even though the "no parking " sign was covered by snow. Police officers are not without fault but their job is difficult... a job I'd never want, for even an hour. Any move to promote civilised behaviour is usually opposed.
I sincerely thank the police for the gallant step such as that which was taken at the recent Reggae music show in Montego Bay, that of sending pertinent messages to those who display certain undesirable behaviour in public. It's a step in the right direction.
I am etc,
D. RANKINE
dadranks@hotmail.com
Toronto
Canada
