Crime task force hears suggestions

Cabinet’s blue ribbon committee on crime met for its first consultation on Wednesday and heard suggestions from a selected cross section of the public representing churches, business sector, media and educators. According to a government press release, the group agreed that crime is a problem that must be tackled by the community and not only by government. A number of reasons were cited for the rise of crime in society, including a growing emphasis on material wealth, decline of moral values and lack of positive activities for young people. Agreement was reached on the need to form a plan of action that addresses both crime and its underlying causes. Members of the crime task force include the Prime Minister as chairman, along with Ministers Dolores Balderamos Garcia, Mark Espat, Dickie Bradley and Max Samuels. More public consultations are planned throughout the country.