THE EDITOR, SIR:I SUPPORT the Police Federation in its demands on the government for improved working and financial conditions. When I visited Jamaica in November 2004, I was appalled at the dilapidated condition of the Montego Bay Police station on Barnett Street. What an eyesore.
The Government must deal with these situations post-haste. No need to set up a committee to create another paper trail. Increase the paltry wages of the men and women and tear down and rebuild some of those shanty town police stations. Give them the modern training and resources they need to fight modern-day crimes. Do it now, Mr. Prime Minister.
With that said, I must express my disappointment with the tactics of the leadership and other bargaining agents of the Police Federation. The men and women in the police force are set apart and law and order should be respected by everyone. They cannot set up roadblocks and they cannot harass and heckle government officials. They cannot buckle under pressure. They cannot let John Q. Public see them sweat. They cannot break the very laws they are often called upon to maintain. They must fight for their rights with dignity not disdain.
I call upon the federation chairman to call off the sick-out. Get the full force back to work and keep the dialogue going. This is the time to show leadership, strength and integrity. We know you cannot do anything about the wind but as captain of the ship you can change the direction of your sail.
I am, etc.,
JOAN P. STEWART
joanbnoisette@msn.com
Laurelton, New York
Via Go-Jamaica
