Trinidad in middle of drug producing countries

Speaking at the 39th annual People’s National Movement (PNM) conference of the Diego Martin West constituency, Joseph said this country fell "smack in the middle" of the cocaine producing countries like Columbia, and the cocaine consuming countries like North America. He said there was a new development in which some of the drugs passing through this country were being "paid for in kind," resulting in some of it remaining here.

That is why, the minister said, Government has been putting measures in place to reduce the amount of drugs that come into this country. The radar system, which is expected to become functional by the end of this year, and the air ship (blimp), Joseph said, were just two of those measures.

Joseph also identified the severe economic circumstances in the 1980s as another contributing factor to the current situation. He said parents were then forced to migrate to work, leaving their children in the care of grandparents and other relatives.

This, he said, led to the development of a certain type of behaviour in those children, which is now being manifest. White collar crime, Joseph said, as well as the unequal distribution of wealth in what is now a prospering economy have also contributed to the escalating crime situation. According to Joseph, the improvement of our law enforcement capabilities was absolutely necessary if the fight against crime is expected to be successful, adding that Government’s hands were tied where legislation was needed to do so, since the Opposition refused to support such legislation. "The UNC realises that the only Achilles heels we have is crime," the minister said.

Joseph challenged those in attendance to do their part in the fight by making a commitment to start with their families. "We must not allow a handful of people to force us to live in fear. We must take our country back," he said.

Health Minister John Rahael declared the conference formally open, and Housing Minister Dr Keith Rowley delivered the feature address.