The Editor, Sir:

Could somebody please explain to me why for years the police and those in authority have allowed thugs to be demanding money from motorists who choose to park in the lot between the Pearnel Charles Arcade and the Kingston Parish Church?

Are they collecting money on behalf of the government? Then why aren't they placed in official uniforms and issuing receipts? If they are not, then this amounts to extortion.

So, why are we being forced to pay while the police are just around the corner on King Street and well aware of the practice?

People need to feel safe when coming downtown, and with the inadequacy of the parking facilities, having a man blowing ganja into your face while demanding $100 to park on a piece of land he knows nothing about is an affront to the decent citizens of this country.

I am, etc.,

G.A. GRIEVES

itgrievesme@yahoo.ca

Kingston

Via Go-Jamaica