I am happy to know that some of my ideas for the Ananda Alert have been put in place. I am afraid, however, that the Government's efforts run the risk of being an exercise in futility unless there is a strong and concerted media blitz to educate the public about it.

Since May is Child Month, the media houses could use the time that is left in this month to focus on how to help our children if any of them should go missing. It could then become an annual effort.

May I suggest the following:

1. The newspapers could present a full-page spread (and not just minute notices) telling people how the alert works and how they may use it if any of their children go missing. This presentation would also inform them on how to use the agencies and phone numbers to call in if they suspect that they have seen a missing child. May I suggest that all the phone companies get together and assign one special free telephone number for this purpose, if this has not been done.

2. The radio stations could broadcast, on a regular basis, for the rest of this month, the sound that proclaims that an Ananda Alert is about to be broadcast, and follow it by details of how to use the system.

3. The TV stations could do some sort of documentary along the same lines. Perhaps the Jamaica Information Service could help to prepare some material.

The media houses could agree on a special logo/colour/sound so that whenever readers/viewers/listeners see or hear this they are aware that the Ananda Alert is being discussed.

It is imperative that the public be as familiar with the Ananda Alert process as they are with 119 or 811 or 311.

In spite of my own interest in the matter, even I am not totally familiar with the process that was finally decided on. If, therefore, people are to be fully aware and fully involved, it is necessary to advertise, advertise, advertise! I challenge the media houses to help as their contribution to Child month. Our children are worth it!

I am, etc.,

Sister JAMES MARIE

sisterfitz@hotmail.com