I keep wondering why we continue paying taxes at all in this country. The fact is, simple basic services for which we pay are rarely ever available to us when we need them.

Last night, there was a break-in at the Waugh Hill Basic School in my community. The police were contacted from 3 a.m. Thursday, and as I write this letter they have not appeared on the scene! Not getting any feedback from them up to 9 a.m., we contacted the Sligoville police, who said they had no motor vehicle, but would call the Red Hills police for assistance. After waiting an inordinately long time hoping to see them arrive on the scene, we called back the Sligoville police. It was clear that up to this time they had not made any contact with the Red Hills police!

Information gathering

The officer answering the phone at Sligoville proceeded to ask me my age! This, he claimed, is part of the information gathering they must go through prior to an investigation.

I really don't think these people are serious about fighting crime. No wonder citizens are taking matters into their own hands, because we clearly cannot depend on the police for assistance.

I am, etc.,

CARL BLISS

St Andrew