I am always amused by the level of hypocrisy that emanates from the leaders of this nation, our policymakers; our politicians.

A few weeks ago, out of panic, our political leaders did what was known as a conscience vote to determine whether the matter of capital punishment should remain on our law books. I consider this a knee-jerk response by our politicians.

The sad situation is; while our policymakers sit in Gordon House, their behaviour is like that of 'Jekyll and Hyde', that is; a person alternatively displaying opposing good and evil personalities, not appearing serious about the nation's business. While this is done, many lives are being wasted by crime and violence.

I am of the strong view that criminal activity at all levels can be curtailed in this blessed country of ours. It is a sad state of affairs as, in my view, I think many persons see leadership as a means of satisfying their selfish desire.

Sad to say, many of our political leaders have fallen prey to such behaviour. Politicians, like any other leaders, need to be reminded that they are placed in responsible positions with no other purpose but to lead. Currently there is a cry for leaders who have the will, the determination and the drive, leaders who have guts; to do all that is necessary to bring about change, even at the expense of being unpopular. The question is asked, "Who will bell the cat"?

Let me hasten to say, the band aid approach in dealing with crime and violence and to which we have grown accustomed to, needs to be discarded. An overhauling of the security and justice system in this country is imperative.

Address social, moral fabric of nation

When we evaluate the situation of crime and violence in Jamaica and the likely factors that may lead to such crime, we have to conclude that recruiting more police personnel cannot and will not be the solution. The solution lies in addressing the social and moral fabric of the nation. The economic situation of individuals needs to be enhanced.

People need a sense of hope and reassurance that they have a future, especially our young. The youths need to be assured in a practical way that their lives are of worth and value. They are an asset to the society. When people value themselves then they will value the life of others. It is at this juncture the talk of values and attitudes can be effectively implemented.

In recent times, the schools, for negative reasons, have been in the news quite often. It is believed that the education system has left much to be desired. Indiscipline affects learning in a negative way. The indiscipline that is being displayed in schools is a reflection of what is happening in the wider society.

I can recall a school principal, while being interviewed on radio, highlighted that a greater percentage of teachers' time is occupied trying to deal with disciplinary matters while their core function, that of teaching, is left unattended. In such an environment it is difficult for learning to take place.

Misguided youths

There are groups of misguided youths coming from dysfunctional homes, they are insecure, they have low self-esteem, so with the desire for attention, they engage in behavioural patterns that lead to mayhem in the society.

The prevailing school environment provides a captive audience for the criminal elements to recruit and train young criminals.

I would like to make some proposals, starting with the education system:

1. The shift system in schools should be abandoned, making way for students to be more engaged in extra-curricular activities such as debating clubs, key clubs, hosting rap sessions along with the traditional activities such as sport. This should form part of the curriculum if a student is to graduate.

2. Re-establish uniformed groups such as Boy Scouts, Girl Guides, Cadet Corps, Drum Corps, among others, in schools and churches.

The Government, along with the private sector, could sponsor these units, helping to put in place the necessary infrastructure, and to provide a stipend to those who may offer themselves for leadership.

Established community leaders should host regular meetings with a view to encouraging civic pride. Finally, each of us must pledge to be agents of change.

I am, etc.,

DALBERT LAING

dal_laing@hotmail.com