The hard-talking national security minister, Senator Dwight Nelson, has declared that persons with illegal guns threaten the country and should be removed from society. Senator Nelson, who made the comment at a special media forum on crime, violence and security, said gunmen who threaten the lives of law-abiding Jamaicans have forfeited their right to live among the law-abiding. I strongly support this stance.

Increase safety, security

As a nation, we must increase the safety and security of all Jamaica, first because it is good for all Jamaicans. This means, among other things, reducing levels of child abuse - sexual, neglect and otherwise.

To ensure justice is done, the rights of victims and offenders will need to be protected. The prevention of crime will be an essential element in any long-term solutions, taking a broad, balanced approach, informed by indigenous Jamaican voices, like the Rastafarians. This involves the justice sector and addressing severe challenges in very poor communities in Jamaica.

I am, etc.,

COTTRELL HYATT

cottrellhyatt@yahoo.co.uk

London, UK