THE EDITOR, Sir:
I MUST sympathise and support the Minister of Agriculture trying to deal with this monster of praedial larceny, managed by a significant population of able-bodied 'two foot puss' who reap what they do not sow. This worsening problem has been a significant disincentive to agricultural production across Jamaica. And this monster has only gotten worse over time.
Minister Roger Clarke seems quite resolute in his quest to make a difference. Agriculture employs more than tourism and any other sector you might consider. If agriculture dies the rural economy dies and the whole country would be engulfed in a sea of chaos, criminality and despair.
Minister Clarke must be supported in his efforts to find a solution to praedial larceny. All the critics along with stakeholders, the Opposition and all should be allowed to make a positive contribution to the effort to find a solution, taking into account all the valid criticisms.
We must not allow any new legislation to cause further hardship and misery for any farmer large or small. We must also remember that this will be added responsibility for the police who will need to be trained and sensitised along with the rest of us.
I am, etc.,
MICHAEL SPENCE
micspen2@hotmail.com
Kingston 6
Via Go-Jamaica
