THE EDITOR, Sir:

OCTOBER 10 was recognised as 'World Day Against the Death Penalty'. Several human rights groups, church groups and other organisations across the world, continue to make their voices heard as it relates to their disagreement with the death penalty.

The Gleaner editorial 'Human rights and the death penalty', had no reservation in its support of the reintroduction/resumption of hanging in Jamaica. This view is not limited to The Gleaner editorial. It is indeed true that 'public opinion over the years has demonstrated overwhelming support for the reintroduction of capital punishment'.

Spiralling murder rate

Many individuals and organisations call for hanging in Jamaica against the background of the spiralling murder rate. They continue to 'bawl out' for the death penalty with full knowledge that there is no real evidence in support of the argument that capital punishment is a deterrent to murderers.

My argument is that death is not a penalty. Death is the easy way out. Besides, why should we kill a man for killing a man? Is there really any difference between illegally taking a life and 'legally' taking a life? Is the life of the killer any less valuable than the life of any other?

Put them to work

I believe that the convicted murderer should be deprived of fulfilling his own dreams. He should not sit in prison and 'eat taxpayers money' but should be made to work. The state should engage him in meaningful work. There is so much that he can be made to do. Instead of paying others to beautify our parks and roundabouts, let the murderers do it.

Let them work with the National Solid Waste Manage-ment Authority, National Housing Trust, etc. Don't kill him. That is the easy way out. Let him pay, bearing in mind that there is no such thing as paying with your life.

I am, etc.,

DAREN S. LARMOND

Associate Pastor.

Optilearn1@yahoo.com