The Editor, Sir:

Corruption, illiteracy and poor parenting are some of the main roots of the tree of problems in Jamaica.

Rape, murder, gang war, unem-ployment, drugs, single parents, etc. are branches from this tree which is growing wildly in every community. The tree is spreading out of control and there seems to be no way effectively to stem its growth.

A suggestion would be to look at the seed we plant. We are reaping what we have sown.

Many people believe that corruption is like electricity running inside Parliament, in the police force and other places.

The Government needs to be fair in the way they award contracts; how they make decisions in matters in which they have personal interest and how they disburse funds. Political parties should operate with transparency regarding financial matters.

Our efforts to clean up the nation must include offering better remuneration and training for teachers and classrooms con-ducive to learning, among other things.

Too often we hear of teachers complaining about salaries and working condition.

Setting a good example

Proverbs 22:6 tells us: "Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it".

There is a grave responsibility entrusted parents in the upbringing of their children to teach them positive values and attitudes.

Corruption has been plaguing our blessed island for far too long; let us play our part to lessen or eliminate if possible.

Let us raise the literacy level of our people to compete and be more marketable in the global economy and parents be good examples for the children.

I am, etc.,

HEZEKAN BOLTON

and JUNIOR HEADLAM

h_e_z_e@hotmail.com

Spring Village, St. Catherine