It is sad to see that despite the progress made my women in many areas, in many quarters we are still being treated as objects, to be used for sexual gratification.

Driving along Maxfield Avenue this morning, I had the misfortune of encountering a poster advertising a stage show/dance called 'Buck har twice a day', probably the name of some dancehall tune currently making the rounds. On Half-Way Tree Road I encountered another sign advertising 'Gal Farm'.

Since when did women become cattle? The saddest thing is that many foolish women will attend both these events, with nary a thought about the contempt with which they're viewed by the men who organised them. Come on ladies, wake up and smell the coffee. You deserve better than this.

- Karen Henry, Portmore

Children curfew

I totally agree with the decision taken by the Kingston and St. Andrew Action Forum (KSAAF) about curfews for street children. The crime rate against children has increased drastically and something really needs to be done.

Too many times you read about child abduction, rape and even murder of our future generation. If a child is going to be on the road at a particular time they should be accompanied by a responsible adult.

The KSAAF also needs to join forces with the police and carry out raids at some of the most popular street dances. Too many times you see children at these events at various hours at night and being exposed to all sorts of sexual behaviour. Their parents should be prosecuted for negligence.

- C.Johnson,

donnakingsley4u@yahoo.comOlympic Gardens, Via Go-Jamaica

Solid waste action

The problem of solid waste management in Jamaica can still make strides. I know for a fact that there are workers within the industry who have a passion for what they do, and if treated with the same passion and appreciation will do even better.

The politicians have to now equip the industry with the required equipment which is tried and tested in other Third World countries. The amount of money wasted and unaccounted for in this area could buy a lot of equipment, plus pay the line workers decent salaries and keep the various areas at a good standard.

Public education and civic pride incentives must be revisited, monitored and encouraged. I speak with knowledge of this matter because I worked across the island within this industry and know things can be better with the right people and leaders at the NSWMA having passion for the task.

- David Ewerse, davidewerse@hotmail.com, Catford, London,Via Go-Jamaica