NOTE-WORTHY - A nation of drunks

•  A nation of drunks

Your Sunday article on teen drinking has certainly resonated with me. It has been a personal concern of mine for some time now.

Much of what we see as abhorrent, teenage delinquency seems to have its roots in substance abuse at times. As an adult, I have observed an upsurge of in-your-face bad behaviour exhibited by our children at teen functions such as barbecues and concerts where alcohol is served. The behaviour at the last stretch of Ranny Williams barbecues has led me to believe that they must have been drunk. I was subsequently inspired to have that conversation with teens whenever the opportunity presented itself. What I discovered was most disturbing.

Teens told me that alcohol was given to them by their parents in the home. Many of them were not aware that there is a legal drinking age. A few of them were avid wine drinkers but vodka seemed to be the preferred drink of choice and just like curfew, they are given a maximum limit of two drinks. From my rough survey, it can be concluded that drinking is the norm in many homes. I would, therefore, like to caution our leaders to put some of the responsibility on the parents as well. This is where our children are being moulded and taught how to fit into society. At this rate, we seem to be building a society of drunks.

Lauren Miller, islandfanny94@yahoo.com

• Ill-mannered students

Please allow me to use this medium to address some concerns I have with regard to statements made by the president of the University of the West Indies Guild of Students, Vishwanauth Tolan, and the recent behaviour of student-protesters in front of the media. Tolan was reported as stating that he was "ordering the Government to a meeting with the students and if they do not come." Mr Tolan, I know you are disappointed and distressed by the subsidy freeze but dare you "order" the Government - who do you think you are?

This is exactly the stem of the problem in this country. The moment one gets a little experience before the cameras and recorders one spews out bitter words without any regard for opponents and listeners.

Our protests can and should be carried out in civilised ways. We do not have to disgrace ourselves by what we say and do in order to be seen and heard.

Everton Tyndale, evat 78@hotmail.com, Mandeville, Manchester