The following are reactions received via e-mail to Monday's lead story on Pastor Glen Samuels' proposal that a mandatory military draft be established to instill discipline in the nation's youth.
Best thing for the youth
I've lived in the U.S. for the past 20 years and I totally agree with the minister's proposal to train the youth for the army. Jamaica needs this type of system and this is one of the best things that could happen to the youth today. They need some discipline. Imagine, retirees and others that would not be affected by the economy as much would enjoy peace, but with the crime, it is such a turn off. I vote for that. It is time to implement such a system.
Regards
Sophia
Concerned world-Jamaican patriot
The time has come to serve your country
I read this story with a smile on my face, I have been saying this for many years, both here and at home (Jamaica). As an ex-soldier I do believe the time has come for the Jamaican government to make it compulsory for men 17-25 years old to serve their country, with pride. In the process, developing the adequate skills to contribute to our other(wise) LOVELY country in a positive and productive manner.
Kind Regards
Dwight Forrester
After they leave the army what then?
IN regard to your article in the newspaper: I would like to ask this question - and I can understand the desperation that led you to make this proposition.
If you militarise these young folk and train them for one year, after they leave the army what then? If there is nothing in the form of gainful employment for them, then that could be a recipe for the destruction of the nation. There would be people who are well-trained militarily. The Bible says that the devil finds work for idle hands.
There would be a paramilitary group running around. What the government needs to do is to create jobs. Let the young folks feel that there are prospects for them. We should not panic, because when we do, we tend to do silly things or make silly decisions that, more often than not, come back to bite us.
Will not stem nation's worrying crime problem
I respect Pastor Samuels' opinion. However, mandatory service for 18-year-olds will not stem the nation's worrying crime problem.
The JDF trains people to defend the country. Youths with social problems must be rehabilitated before they join the JDF.
Many of the African countries have mandatory military service. Yet, Africa has the highest murder rate in the world. For example, Sudan and Liberia have some of the highest rates of genocide in the world.
However, I do agree with Pastor Samuels that many of the youths do not get love in the homes. Many of them do not know how to love.
Therefore, I would agree that if social workers can help, then that would help to reduce the crime rate. If many of the youths will volunteer to help with social work, then that would help.
