Square pegs in round holes

THE EDITOR: The criminals are having a field day, and it appears that sweet Carnival is threatened. What can we do to pre-empt this blot on the society, and the potential disruption for long-term development plans? Like most citizens, I think the odds are in favour of those engaged in disruption and consequently making our little former paradise look bad. The police are having a hard time. We seem to be breeding more and more hardened criminals and hopelessness abounds as the authorities cannot make heads or tail of the situation, in terms of solutions.

Even all-inclusive parties now begin at 2 pm. So widespread is the fear and panic. I would not like to be in the shoes of the National Security Minister nor the Prime Minister as head of the Government at this time. The brazenness and don’t-care-a-damn attitude of criminals leaves one in bewilderment as to what is next. What heinous crime we will be subjected to in tomorrow’s news; or the next hour for that matter. The situation is a “growing grave.” Cordoning off Laventille has not worked. While I am not an impulsive pessimist, all must be concerned at the crime situation in this country.

In all of this we continue to hear of many efforts sponsored by government but poverty and discontentment continue unabated. The Judicial system, the Medical/Health system, the Housing sector, the Utilities, Transport infrastructure and almost all of public service departments are in shambles. Could it be a case of square pegs in round holes all over again? Get those who have demonstrated special ability and know-how, the tools and resources to work. I do however hope and pray that Carnival will not produce the evil that all indicators suggest. Visitors, please be careful.

ANTHONY SWANDERS
Laventille