PNP promises new approach to crime-fighting

THERE WILL be a new approach to crime-fighting by the governing People's National Party (PNP), says party chairman Robert Pickersgill.

The party will now focus on a sustained programme rather than the "reactive policy and programme changes" that now obtains.

According to Mr. Pickersgill, more attention is to be paid to the factors which can contribute to the prevention of crime and for addressing the circumstances which can lead to criminal behaviour. This approach he said would involve the entire community.

Mr. Pickersgill was updating reporters on Monday on Sunday's meeting of the party's National Executive Council (NEC), during a press briefing at PNP headquarters. He said the party recognised that the issues of crime and violence and the economy were points of weaknesses in the public perception of its performance. Both were discussed by the NEC, and the report from the Executive on crime and violence considered. The report highlighted the need for continued and wider public consultation on the broader issues which impact the country's crime situation.

It also called for greater emphasis to be placed on proactive interventions and the preventive phases. In terms of the rehabilitative process, the reorientation, re-training and re-entry of those who have served time in penal institutions must be a main focus for party policies and programmes, the report said.

Meantime, the PNP will hold its 63rd annual conference between September 20 and23.

The process of candidate selection has been stepped up to ensure a full slate of 60 before the conference, General Secretary Maxine Henry-Wilson said.

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