Welfare not the answer
published: Thursday | December 8, 2005

THE EDITOR, Sir:

ON TUESDAY I read Staff Reporter Claude Mills' lead story, 'Welfare Warfare' in Jamaica and was amazed that after all the lessons learned around the world, we still have community leaders who still think that more welfare will solve the problems of the inner cities. I have no doubt the church has an important role to play in these inner cities, but more welfare is not the answer.

Pastor Robinson's idea of the business community helping is an excellent idea but just giving away the money is a bad one. Instead, the Government should set up enterprise zones in these communities and give tax incentives to the private sectors to invest in the communities. Jobs are what these young people want, not a handout. Bring job training, community improvement projects, manufacturing, retail outlets, entertaining venues, etc. to these communities and transform them. Give the people incentives to improve themselves and, pastor, I guarantee you will see your church fill with families giving thanks for the Lord's blessings.

I am, etc.,

R. KONG QUEE

Rkongquee@hotmail.com

U.S.A.

Via Go-Jamaica