Jamaica does not seem to be doing the right thing lately, when it comes to working with other countries, especially the United Kingdom and the United States of America.

Representatives of these countries are disappointed with both the degree of cooperation between government departments and with the associated criminal elements attached to Jamaicans residing in their countries.

In fairness, Jamaican criminals are not the main threat to their society but are, without question, the most inconvenient as most crimes committed by Jamaicans seem to be against the individual.

Slowly but surely, Jamaica is en route to becoming a rogue state; some think we have already achieved that status, just not officially as yet; maybe the pending extradition of 'Dudus' Coke willseal that fate.

Jamaica is urgently in need of a hero and I forecast that one will emerge soon. Nutten lasts forever.

- G. PARKERxtparker@yahoo.com

Deejays as scapegoats

I've read and read numerous articles being published in regard to this Gaza/Gully incident. While I'm in agreement with many points in regard to the negative influence of the music, I cannot help but be baffled as to the level of blame being placed on these artistes.

I have to ask, where are the parents? I remember growing up under strict regulations on what I could and could not watch, listen to or read, and I adhered to these rules as disobedience would garner punishment. I feel we, as a society, need to admit that there has been a severe breakdown of the home. Children are having children and, as a result, are unable to provide the proper guidance to our next generation. Mothers and daughters now party together. There is a moral decay that has taken hold of our island that stems way beyond the lyrics of the Gully/Gaza feud.

To me, both Mavado and Vybz Kartel have become scapegoats for a society too lazy to fight the real problems of an uneducated youth, faced with poverty, crime and no guidance on how to rise above.

- Chelan Smith

chelansmith@yahoo.com

Smokey Vale

Carolyn lacks rhythm

Regarding Carolyn Cooper's article, 'Language politics', published on Sunday, November 15, she is insensitive to the rhythm of Jamaican patois.

A study of Ms Lou's writings should remedy that defect.

- Doreen Grace

degrace@mailcity.com