CLAREMONT, St. Ann:
INSPECTOR WESLEY Christie has lauded the commitment and leadership qualities of those involved in neighbourhood watch programmes launched in Jamaica 12 years ago.
Inspector Christie, the sub-officer in charge of crime prevention at community relations headquarters, was speaking at a membership drive meeting of the Hope Avenue, Broad Street and Ogle Neighbourhood Watch at the St. Matthew's Anglican Church Hall here last Thursday.
He congratulated the police and other interest groups for being a part of the programmes and called for greater participation in order to get people focused on crime reduction, improve the quality of life and bring crime within tolerable limits.
He implored his audience to recognise the importance of taking care of everyone as he was not sure how many recognised the need to build communities.
Inspector Christie deemed as a concern, the lack of guidance provided for some children and urged those present to go out as "agents of change", by seeking out new members and getting them involved.
Noting that the fear of crime in Jamaica was greater than crime itself, he said things were relatively quiet in the Claremont area, but it was of no comfort as there was still much fear among people. Looking at the collective aspect, he said "band together, speak out, hold onto what is right and good, speak out against evil. The collective effort will lead to reduction in fear of crime. It is a matter of perception."
