The Prime Minister continues to avoid the ultimate responsibility of the government for finding a response to the explosion of violent criminal activity which has overtaken the country.  By attacking the Opposition Spokesman on National Security, Dr. Peter Phillips, he continues to try to avoid the fact that there has been no policy statement made by the government regarding the approach of the government to crime and security for the entire period that it has formed the government.

The fight against crime and violence involves much more than simply operation plans from the Police even though these are important.  The Prime Minister must also speak to the Prevention Plan that the government proposes to implement in the inner city communities.  He must speak to the question of pay and conditions of work which are central to the low morale which the police are now experiencing.  Most of all he has a responsibility to allay the legitimate fears of citizens that the government has no plan, has no programme and has no policy to deal with the current wave of criminal violence.

It would appear that it is the Prime Minister who is seeking to score party political points with these fundamental national issues.    The Opposition has indicated on many occasions, including at the Vale Royal Talks that it remains ready to enter into dialogue with the government on these on other issues.  So far however, despite an indication by the government at the Vale Royal Talks of their desire to enter into dialogue there has been no follow through on this proposal.  The Opposition and the people of Jamaica have a right to expect more from their Prime Minister and the JLP Government.

Contact:
Robert Pickersgill
Chairman
Tel: (876) 978-1337
Email: