Letter of the Day | Tackle paedophilia problem urgently

THE EDITOR, Madam:

Jamaica is known for its white sands, blue waters, vibrant people and golden sunshine. A recent Miami Herald article published on June 28, ‘How Jamaica and its prime minister are becoming a mini superpower’, explains the country’s involvement in regional and international politics.

This, of course, must be praised and lauded since it brings the necessary accolades to Jamaica. However, few people know that Jamaica is also infested with paedophiles, who will stop at nothing (since there are few concrete or effective laws) to destroy and manipulate the innocence of our children.

Over the past year, various local media groups have been highlighting various incidents where our children have been targeted by these psychopaths, who continue murder and rape our children.

The Jamaican Government, while it is being praised by the international media, must take serious steps in protecting our nation’s children, as they have a duty to take care of our country and the citizens’ well-being. It does not make any sense that the Government is being praised overseas, when at home there is chaos and disorder. The people also have a vital role to play in ensuring that we look out for our children. It is important that people are vigilant, and that we report incidents of child abuse of any kind, and to not be afraid in being the voice for the innocent.

The Church, sadly, seems to have lost it credibility to address the issue of paedophilia, which continues to plague our society. It is unfortunate that some members of the Church, on several occasions, have been accused of the same. The Church must purge itself of these members and clergy who are involved in these unforgivable acts against God’s children.

The Church must not only ‘protect their institution’, but send these men and women within their pews or on the altars to the respective law-enforcement authorities. They should not be defending or hiding these incidents, and of course, they need to be honest and transparent to their congregation. Anything short of this is being complicit in the crimes against and abuse of, our nation’s children.

We must implore the Government to implement laws that are effective, strong, and ensures that children are protected from predators. We need to send a strong message. The enactment of effective laws that ensure the safety and well-being of the people, and especially children, will indeed make Jamaica a meaningful mini superpower.

R. GOODWILL