All inclusives the order of the day

THE EDITOR: “All inclusive” fetes are now the order of the day, in fact especially at the Carnival season. Your editorial dated January 26, 2004 gave an outline of the all inclusive fetes going back  to the days of the “rum punch” parties. Over the years the idea has grown and more and more associations, clubs, schools, organisations, both public and private have now adopted the concept of “all inclusive.” One of the reasons fete promoters go for the idea, is it caters for the party-goers’ needs for food and drink all in one, at one price, the other factor is safety/security; at these all-inclusives patrons fete in a safe environment.

Thirdly because of the ongoing crime and criminal activity, it is no longer safe to use cash transactions as a means of entry to these events. Cash flow is eliminated, patrons/party goers usually buy their entry tickets in advance, so again a safe atmosphere is guaranteed. Yet as reported by the newspaper there was a killing at an all inclusive fete. How safe now are patrons, party-goers to these events? When criminal activity is on the rise, citizens become paranoid. When such events take place at what is to be considered a “safe environment” what next? On the other hand, patrons who attend public events/fetes, pay a cheaper price for entry, but how safe are these fetes/parties?

All-inclusive fetes are not only for the “well to do” or who can afford, but prices are structured in such a way, that promoters want to encourage a peaceful, harmonious setting, without, any criminal or violent acts. Can you blame party promoters? Also residents of districts come together, as a community and through their neighbourhoods have private parties, similar to  all inclusives, again one fee is charged and the residents may hire a band or DJ and enjoy themselves. We live in “perilous times,” crime is on the increase. We are in the midst of the Carnival season. Can we afford to have citizens living in constant fear daily? The authorities must also do their part with the co-operation of citizens to help rid the society of this violent behaviour. Enjoy and have a safe Carnival.

KEN SMITH
Woodbrook