HAVING GROWN up in Kingston, Jamaica, I have and do cherish the memories of a time when the safety and security of citizens was not maintained by armed Jamaica Constabulary Force officers, armed private-security agencies, personal legally owned firearms, or grilled doors, windows and verandahs. It was the law and the enforcement of it that kept the peace and security of a people, who, for the most part, pledged to abide by its dictates.

The punishment of criminals found guilty of hideous crimes included imprisonment with lashes in and out. For murderers, it was the hangman's noose. Believe me, those punishments were effective deterrents to those who would want to be a lawless member of society.

I am pleased to see that there is a healthy debate on the awakening of the sleeping giant of law and order: the death penalty. I wouldn't mind living once again in a Jamaica that would afford me peace and safety now that I'm in my senior years. I pray that our government officials will make it their duty to agree on activating the death penalty. Jamaicans will back this bold move for a safer and more secure Jamaica.

I am, etc.,

Dr L. EDISON DEWAR

USA