As I listened to the views of some of our students on the Gaza/Gully controversy aired on various media programmes recently, I was struck by their poor command of the English language.

Their challenges with grammar and diction were painful to listen, as they appeared blissfully unaware of the impediment poor English can pose for smooth transition to the workplace and other spheres of life in Jamaica, and elsewhere in the world.

At the risk of being accused of simplistic analysis and socio-cultural bias, etc, I would strongly suggest a method used in my high school years ago, which yielded much success - absolutely no patois in the classroom. The best way to master the English language is to practise speaking it.

Yaneek PageKingston

Do something about crime

I write with much sadness for the families of the many persons who have been brutally murdered by these vicious and heartless criminals in this beautiful country. These monsters go about their daily life without guilt or worry of being caught.

How much longer will we sit back and 'fret' for our safety? I mean, in recent times each time my phone rings my heart races because I start to wonder what the news is going to be. Isn't it the role of government to ensure that national security is not compromised? When will it become the number one issue for the state? We can no longer stand up for our rights without signing away our life.

Something has to be done. We should not tolerate this any longer. I am so afraid. God help us!

Andre Latchman

andre.latchman@live.com

Jamaicans need a change

This letter is in response to The Gleaner's editorial of October 18, 'The PM should listen to Mr Livshits'. The views expressed are critical to nation building and should be well received by Jamaicans, especially the leaders of the country.

I believe Jamaica is considered a 'poor' country because we consistently ignore the opportunities at hand to make the country a better place. The financial sector had many opportunities to improve strategies to encourage savings funds, rather than squandering money.

The financial plans of the Government should be reviewed so that Jamaica will not squander money or encourage bankruptcy. I do not think that we should consult international agencies to clear our woes - that even now we can barely manage to repay. Jamaicans need a change. We should be able to face the consequences of our actions as well as take constructive criticisms to prevent a repeat of the problems.

Sancia Morgan

sanci14@yahoo.com