It's amazing that there is still a debate over the death penalty in Jamaica based on the fact that the populace of the island is under attack by criminals. Those who are arguing against the death penalty are living in denial and pretending they are in a dream. However, it is time for them to wake out of their stupor and face the harsh reality that we are under siege. Most often, the defenders of the death penalty contend that the act of hanging is inhumane for the perpetrators; however, they totally ignore the pain of victims and their families, in addition to loss of productivity as those who are killed are, in most part, innocent, productive people.

These pro-criminals tend to make reference to the United States of America to support their claim; these are some facts they need to know. 1). As of April 1, 2008, the death penalty was authorised by 37 of the 50 states. Since 1976-April 1, 2008, there were 1,099 executions and currently 3,263 are on death row.

The American population stands at 301,139,947 there is no comparison with Jamaica's three million. Let's do the mathematics, we have no room for criminal elements who consistently terrorise the people.

The people of Jamaica elect the Government and it needs to work for the people. Keeping the death penalty on the books and enforcing it to the maximum is warranted. I would further say that for this to happen effectively, we need a police force with integrity and one we can trust.

A bipartisan approach

We also need a call-in number so informants can leave the information without being fearful for their own lives; we also need a bipartisan approach that sends a clear message to the criminals that we are uniting on this effort, so there are no cracks for them and their lawyers to crawl through. If they are convicted the punishment should be swift and without prejudice. For fear that the innocent may fall through the judicial crack, enough time should be given for the defendants to appeal their cases. With modern technology and good common-sense detective work, the defence lawyers should have no difficulties in proving that their clients are guiltless.

I do think that attacking children and women is the last straw that breaks the camel's back. I believe in giving amnesty as the calm before the storm; however, these terrorists/criminal elements should be warned that after the calm, there will be a pervading storm against them. Also, the leaders need to encourage the people of Jamaica to be a community that works together; the Government cannot do this house cleaning on its own. It needs the three million as the wind beneath its wings. We need the death penalty, hang them quickly or let them face the firing squad.

PS: If we are independent, why the Privy Council?

I am, etc.,

N. HARRIS

Concerned Jamaican