The Editor, Sir:

Over the years I have written letters about possible solutions to ridding Jamaica of the current crime situation and have come to the realisation that there is no easy solution.

While I am in agreement with some of the current views now being expressed about a mandatory programme of military discipline, there will be challenges with some of these proposals.

Pastor Glen Samuels is proposing a one-year programme in the army for young men, but then, as Mr Perkins has indicated after that then what. With the current economic climate, and lack of job opportunities and high illiteracy, what do you do with these young men after the one year has expired.

Such a programme could create more problems than we anticipate. We may get more trained and organised criminals which would be harder for the legal forces to curb.

Multifaceted approach

Crime fighting needs a multifaceted approach, including programmes that enhance family and social values in the long-term. But what is the immediate solution?

Crime continues because of one simple fact. There is no deterrent. Every gunman knows that the likelihood of being caught is almost non-existent.

I think the authorities including the Prime Minister, Minister of National Security and the Commis-sioner of Police need to adopt a zero tolerance approach and devise a wholistic crime-fighting plan which guarantees the apprehension and severe punishment of criminals, even at the expense of law-abiding citizens losing some civil liberties temporarily.

I am, etc.,

MICHAEL RICKETTS

mikeyrick@hotmail.com

Jamaican in Cayman