I believe that this newspaper and, recently, some letter writers, were unfair in their criticism of Commissioner Hardley Lewin.

I am one who was critical of the appointment of Rear Admiral Lewin to the post of commissioner of police, not because I believed he was not capable but because I thought that the men and women in the police force should be given priority. Lewin's appointment would cause confusion and discord in the force. I now think that the appointment of the admiral was the appropriate thing to do. Simply put, the appointment broke the clannish 'buddy system' in the police force.

That said, I am ready and prepared to eat my diet of crow- even with the feathers.

Hands tied

Yes, we expect much from the commissioner, but how can he deliver what we demand of him when, like his predecessors, he has one hand tied behind his back and a basket to carry water. To achieve what we seek, we need accountability in Government, from the top down. This newspaper and others with influence should put pressure on the 60 lawmakers, who do not know their job description is to enact legislation, which gives the commissioner all the necessary powers /tools to avoid the things some of us find so vexing.

Until and unless we have legislation in place to punish those who would make mischief or downright lie to the security forces, on an affidavit, commit fraud, utter forged documents, become involved in extortion, commit carnal abuse, rape and other like offences, we will not see change for the better.

Imprisonment

Unless we have legislation to make being involved in a gang a serious offence, punishable with imprisonment, we will not enjoy a reduction in crime.

We will only see a growing throng of agents of crime and corruption.

Simple, they have no fear for the law.

As it stands today, more emphasis is placed on motorists who commit breaches of the (revenue making) road traffic law than crimes that affect quality of life.

The bottom line is this, the commissioner is doing his best with the tools available to him.

From the pronouncements he has made so far, it is crystal clear he is not beholden to any special interest or political group.

I am, etc.,

AUTHNEL REID

authnelreid@optonline.net