VIEWPOINT:

July 06-2008:

The Army's Involvement In Civil Unrest In Trinidad!

There was some concern when the Trinidad & Tobago army aligned with the local police, in helping to combat criminal elements in a certain community. Residents felt fearful of such deployment of military muscle, in a situation (which to most), seemed unnecessary at the time.

Concern generally was that the Police Department was the institution that was legally mandated to deal with Civil unrest. So when the army and police co-operated in that exercise, it would naturally cause raised eye brows within that community.

Personally, I feel that there was a lack of effective, and socially responsible communication from both the army and the police, prior to, or after this sting begun. Thus creating a climate of fear and concern.

Today however, the situation is much clearer within the community involved, thus allowing for better co-operation and acceptance.
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July 06-2008:

Prostitutes In Jamaica Should Be Taxed!

There was a suggestion recently that prostitutes should be made to pay taxes for their work. This was never considered a legitimate source of income in Jamaica.

But in light of current international reality, the spread of HIV and other STD's. And the common solicitation for services from these sources. It may be prudent for consideration to make prostitution legal in Jamaica.

It is also a fact of life, that prostitution could never be obliterated, because it provides for certain sexual needs and outlets that some people and individuals, cannot get within a legal marriage arrangement, or

monogamous relationship.

It is also possible for the state to ensure that such services are regulated in terms of keeping a register of those who are involved in such work, ensuring that regular health checks and services are provided to them legally, and mandatory venues, or areas be identified for plying such services.

These are realistic approaches to a social reality, that many Caribbean countries and governments have failed to address and acknowledge exists.

Derryck S. Griffith.
Educator-Advocate & Blogger.
NYC.