The Editor, Sir:

Fathers, especially those with more than one homes to manage, need to examine themselves to determine whether they are making a positive contribution towards the development of their children. Fatherhood is not synonymous with sperm-donor or financier. Too many fathers, and sadly some mothers too, believe that as long as they are making a financial contribution that's the end of their responsibility.

Also, being present in a home in a conjugal relationship does not always mean that some of our fathers have positive impact. Our mothers continue to bear the brunt of the burden of raising the children, and are always the ones to be blamed when the children go astray. It is very rare hearing of a school sending for the father, when a child misbehaves at school - it is always the mother and this, among other things, need to change.

Our children, especially our boys, need that role model, father figure. And, no wonder some of them in their quest to find that person end up in the wrong company - with a don as their hero and role model.

In the same way directors are held responsible for the health of companies they direct, fathers must be held responsible (mothers are already endowed with this responsibility) for all the ills of their children. Raising children is a partnership but alas some fathers are in too many partnerships, and this has rendered them dysfunctional.

If we intend to tame the monster called crime - those absentee fathers must arise from their slumber and start playing a meaningful role in the lives of their children.

I am, etc.,

PAT BIGNALL

wilbig@cwjamaica.com