The Editor, Sir:

In response to reading the article regarding "Penalty for Pimp Parents" I was repulsed and enraged that the Jamaican Government is now taking measures to protect their children from sexual exploitation. And it took status and financial pressure from the United States. What picture does this present to the global world as to what value Jamaica puts on the children of their future. I see it as outside financial pressure. So sad, that the elected people didn't have a consciousness or the strength to protect and provide for their future (the children), without having to be pressured into it financially and globally "embarrassed" (I would hope).

My experience in Jamaica has been as a 10-time visitor in the past several years. I am now married to an islander and we are residing in Florida. I've been appalled with the experience of water and electricity outages and lack of garbage collection. Road repairs are nonexistent! What I've seen in my visits and conversations with residents is an unaccountability or misappropriation of Government tax dollars. The result is total lack of respect and trust.

I hope that the Jamaican Government would recognize that the priority of its future of their beautiful island is to take investment in the children. It takes education, activities, health care and support. The children need to be given every opportunity to learn in a safe and decent environment, with the knowledge that the country supports them, not because of outside pressure. Shame on you for not providing safekeeping for them on your own! It takes giving respect to gain it. The children in our world, regardless of what country, are the legacy of their society. May God bless them, and may we protect them and provide safe, healthy, and trustworthy environments for children everywhere. Please don't let them be left behind in our agendas.

I am, etc.,

JANET LOMBARD

jlombar7@tampabay.rr.com

Bradenton, FL

Via Go-Jamaica