The Editor, Sir:

IN A recent television newscast, Superintendent of Police Ellington was quoted as saying that there were more applications for enlistment in the police force from women than there were from men. Mr. Ellington did not say whether that was a cause for concern but the implication and inference drawn from his statement suggests this.

One can understand the apprehension of most young men just leaving school, fuelled in part by the killing of several police officers over the past few months. But I do believe that serving the force is one of the most honourable and ambitious things that any young man should strive to achieve.

Yes, the force, like many other government agencies, has its challenges and has borne the brunt of negative campaigns as a result of the actions of rogue and corrupt cops, but they are a minority.

The force has enormous opportunities for young men. It's up to the young prospects to stay focused and not be distracted by corrupt activities and most importantly, be frugal and capitalise on the opportunities for further studies.

There are numerous officers from the rank and file who have acquired their first degrees and quite a few who are lawyers. Unfortunately, the force has not done enough to highlight these incentives. Perhaps urging the Government to seriously address some of the welfare concerns of the Police Federation and looking at how it is marketed could be a starting point.

I am a product of the force and have not regretted serving not one day of the 20 years. I am indeed grateful for the opportunities that I got. Young men should, therefore, answer the call and make a difference.

I am, etc.,

ERROL McLEISH

ermarlii16@hotmail.com

Daytona, Greater Portmore,

St. Catherine