I was appalled to read Bruce Golding's response, to mounting pressure for his Government, to act more decisively on that monster called crime! Mr Golding stated it was the police responsibility, to devise a plan, not his. Despite what the Constitution might say, it's still the Government's responsibility to devise broad strategies to combat crime. If not, why bother with having a Ministry of National Security, whose offices are fully staffed and which has access and connections with international organisations specialising in crime and security?

Biggest problem

Year after year, crime continues to be Jamaica's biggest problem. The number of murders these last few weeks is major cause for concern. The Government can no longer just sit back, lazily, and act as if it is unconcerned or has no responsibility by virtue of the Constitution. Many studies have already been executed on issues related to crime, we are all aware of these. It's now time for action, and more so, heavy investment in fighting crime. The levels of aggression and lack of value for life has reached critical levels.

Effective strategy

There are four broad areas where an effective strategy is needed to fight crime, Mr Golding's government need to address these as priority: heavy investment in education; more effective use of he security forces; ensure the judiciary is an integral part of the process, tackling the backlog of cases and adequate witness protection; and heave investment in the inner-city communities.

The Government was elected to lead, it's time to stand up and make bold decisions on these matters.

- P. Chin Chin_p@yahoo.com, Canada