EU's position understandable

The Editor, Sir:

The recent decision taken by Ambassador Marco Mazzocchi Alemanni and the EU delegation not to go through with completely furnishing the computer lab at Maverley Primary and Junior High School has left many Jamaicans with ambivalent feelings. The EU had apparently committed to furnishing the lab if construction was completed within five months.

On the one hand are those who feel that the decision is too excessive and at present borders on the inhumane. On the other hand, there are those who believe that it is a matter of principle because 'a deal is a deal'. At face value, Alemanni's decision seems very harsh and insensitive. It's almost as if a vendetta of some sort is being executed against these children who are in desperate need of the computers.

However, there is a deeper underlying factor which must be brought to our attention. The ugly and brutal monster of crime and violence has once again deprived our nation's children of a grand opportunity. It is evident from what the ambassador said at the function that the agreement was not honoured because of incidents of violence. For some reason, the criminals were allowed to ruin it for the community - for our children. This nonsense must stop.

'big man' hurting us

The community members must now come to the greater realisation that the entire community will suffer if they continue to allow the heartless and senseless criminals to flourish. Yes, the 'big man' is hurting our children. In fact, all of us as Jamaicans will suffer immensely if we sit back and allow criminals to dictate the affairs of our communities.

This incident in Maverley has forced me to wonder about the several other opportunities we have missed due to crime and violence. How many donors have withdrawn benevolent deeds because of the crime rampage in our various communities? How many investors have ceased to do business in this country because of the increasing hostility? Moreover, how many individuals are planning to 'lock shop' and flee from what is deemed as an onslaught against the hardworking, innocent and law-abiding citizens?

The big question is - are we going to allow the criminals to destroy us?

I am, etc.,

RANDY GOLDSON

Vice-president,

United Student Movement

Northern Caribbean University