Consul-general in Miami endorses govt’s crime plan
JAMAICA’S consul general to Miami, Ricardo Allicock, told a recent gathering of Caribbean nationals in that city that the Government of Jamaica was proactive in its fight against crime and violence and appealed to Jamaicans overseas to co-operate and support it in this struggle.
In endorsing the Government’s crime plan, Allicock cited a number of initiatives implemented by the government which he said was geared at curbing the wave of violence and restoring peace and order throughout the island.
He mentioned for example, the joint security initiatives, involving the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) and the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) as a case in point.
At the same time, Allicock stressed that the government was ensuring that the security forces carry out their duties with the utmost respect for the rights of the public. In fact, he told his audience that a committee had been set up to monitor the operations of the security team and to review complaints of misconduct.
Allicock, who was speaking at a community forum at the Church of the Firstborn in North Miami, said Jamaican nationals overseas could join in the national campaign against crime and violence by refraining from harbouring criminal elements or subscribing to the trading of guns and ammunition.
In addition, he urged the Caribbean audience to lobby for development initiatives in their communities as well as their respective homelands.
Meanwhile, Gordon “Butch” Stewart, chairman of Air Jamaica Limited who also addressed the gathering, expressed appreciation to the Jamaicans for their continued support of the national airline.
Stewart also underscored the government’s efforts to build a strong economy through initiatives under the National Development Plan. The success of this programme, he said, would depend on the participation of all Jamaicans at home and abroad. To this end, he told the gathering “to be constructive in their contributions and not destructive”.
Addressing the concerns of Air Jamaica, Stewart said the airline was enjoying some success, despite the difficult times. He attributed this success to the determination of his management team to “continue development strategies to keep the airline surviving”.
Stewart said for example, that while there had been cutbacks in some areas, there were improvements in customer service with increased flights to some destinations and effective in-flight service. He also pointed to community sponsorship and support to continue the airline’s development.
“The company is making strides to become a number one airline internationally, representing Jamaica in a positive manner and at the same time bringing revenue to the national economy,” he remarked.
Stewart also commended the South Florida clergy for their efforts to bring information and awareness to the immigrant community through timely town hall forums.
The sessions are held monthly throughout the South Florida communities to inform on issues of immigration, legal aid, education, health and consumerism. Related professionals within the community along with the County Consumer Information offices provide information, while sponsors include Air Jamaica Limited, Grace, Kennedy and Company Limited, Western Union Bank Limited, Western Union, Bank United and CRI Communications.