THE PROBLEM of crime and violence continues to be the main concern of the over-whelming majority of Jamaicans, who believe the crisis is worsening.
This is according to the latest Gleaner-commissioned public opinion poll conducted by the Don Anderson-led Market Research Services Limited during the period October 18 to November 8.
The poll, which solicited responses from 1,000 persons aged 18 years and over in all 14 parishes, found that the problem of crime and violence was the main worry for more than 55 per cent of those who responded to the question: What would you say is the biggest concern that you have now as a citizen of Jamaica?
CITIZENS DISTRESSED
The distress of the majority of citizens is based on the continuous escalation in the country's crime rate which has spiralled to more than 1,500 persons killed since the start of the year. This is so despite the valiant efforts of the security forces which have been making some headway in dismantling some of the island's most dangerous gangs.
In the meantime, unemployment, especially among the youths is the next major concern of citizens. Fourteen per cent of those interviewed identified unemployment as a major problem. In fact, a significant number believe that the escalating crime rate is a direct result of the high rate of unemployment which is most prevalent amongst the 18-24 years age group. The polling sample pointed out that a significant number of young persons graduating from Jamaican secondary and tertiary institutions have been encountering great difficulty finding a job despite being academically qualified.
Citizens were also concerned over problems associated with poverty, corruption, illegal guns, organised crime, the lack of education, politics, politicians not carrying out their duties, idleness and laziness.
Gleaner-Don Anderson public opinion poll
- PERCENTAGE
CRIME - 55
UNEMPLOYMENT - 14
FUTURE OF YOUNG PERSONS - 4.9
BAD ROADS - 4.5
CORRUPTION - 3.6
EDUCATION SYSTEM - 3.1
JUSTICE SYSTEM - 2.2
FEEDING FAMILY - 2
HOUSING - 1.7
MEDICAL CARE - 1.6
FINANCE - 1.4
- J.M.
