The Editor, Sir:

The holiday season is fast approaching and this is the right time for the Government to become pre-occupied with creating employment opportunities for the nation's young people if it's serious about controlling the escalating crime rate.

The unemployment situation can only be described as 'pathetic'. Approximately 65 per cent of our young men in the rural areas of this nation are semi-literate, semi-skilled workers in the agricultural areas and lack consistent employment opportunities.

Social deprivation and economic hardship are forcing a significant number of young men between the ages of 16 and 24 to move to Kingston in search of job opportunities. But with little or no formal education and no skilled trade openings for apprentices, these newcomers will encounter starvation and nakedness. Many of these young people lack the will to be patient.

Faith is running out

The Government needs to know that the faith of the youth is running out. Young men and young women are still holding on to the promised 'hope'.

I solemnly appeal to the Prime Minister, the Minister of Youth and the Minister of National Security to do something more positive for our young people.

We are not expecting the usual press conference called annually by the Security Minister with the Police Commissioner by his side, as he announces 'stringent measures' to stem the rising crime rate as the holiday season approaches. Instead, we welcome new initiatives to increase employment opportunities for the poor, the least and the disadvantaged.

I am, etc.,

REV. DR. G. G. WILSON

Northwest St Elizabeth