As a society, Jamaica's policy-makers have turned a blind eye for many years to our changing culture. Not only has the level of violent crime increased over time, but the pattern has also changed, and a higher degree of organisation and coordination has emerged.

The reality of the situation is that, the Jamaica Constabulary Force especially, is ill-equipped, underpaid, and sometimes unsupported. There is also a concern that too many law-enforcement personnel are involved in illicit activities, which becomes another cause for concerns. Therefore, new technology, along with new ways of thinking and different approaches, must be employed in order to bring about serious changes.

'Operation Kingfish' strategy

Various ministers of national security have been vocal about solving crime and violence, but to no avail. The 'Operation Kingfish' strategy is working with the cooperation of citizens. However, the solution to the problem of crime and violence cannot come exclusively from law enforcement. Jamaica needs to have stronger primary prevention and intervention programmes aimed at strengthening stronger communities and reducing poverty and lawlessness.

Scholars, politicians, commentators and veranda society have spoken on the causes of the spiralling crime and violence in Jamaica, and numerous suggestions have been made, but who will bell the cat?

In Jamaica, the youth (persons under the age of 30) make up the greater percentage of our population. A dual challenge for the Government is the creative and productive development of this larger segment of our population.

effectively involving young people

In addition, a constant challenge has been to find ways to effectively involve our young people in decision-making processes - whether in the home, schools, community organisations, the Church or political parties. Yet another challenge has been to recognise the many issues they must confront, for example, drug abuse, crime and violence, unemployment and diseases, and assist them in dealing with or addressing these challenges.

What I have observed over the years is that trying to enforce or create peace in many parts of Jamaica is like trying to fix a broken vase - although the parts may fit together, the 'faulty lines' are clearly visible. There is also a desperate need for the reform of our dilapidated justice system. One cannot, of course, tackle crime without bringing about considerable improvements to the criminal justice system.

These proposals, some of which can be easily implemented as long as there is the resolve, in addition to the resources, can go a very far way in eliminating the problems faced by critical organs of our nation's security apparatus.

I am, etc.,

CHARLIE BROWN

charliebrown1004@

hotmail.com