In order to achieve a well functioned society, there is need to ensure that public security exists and that the justice systems are promoted.

This year Government has allocated $13.6 billion to ‘reform and enhance’ our security sector. Attention will be centered on enhancing the physical infrastructure, strengthening operational capability through equipment acquisition, improving personnel, quality of training, strengthening community policing, and improving accountability. The Guyana Fire Service is also slated to receive benefits.

The promotion of safety and justice not only ensures a safe and secure society, but it also plays a significant role in poverty reduction.

Steps are also underway to enhance the Judicial System within Guyana. Focus will be to strengthen the management, administration and financing of the Judiciary and the office of the DPP.

Prospects for development will result in chaos without a viable and sustainable security and justice system. The safety, security and protection of persons and property from violence, crime and disorder need to be primed.

Co-operation between governmental and non-governmental agencies is required to tackle crime. These organizations should work hard in areas, such as, employment generation, poverty reduction, housing, education, etc.

The United Nation’s Guiding Principles for Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice in the Context of Development and a New International Economic Order urge that “…community participation in all phases of crime prevention and criminal justice should be promoted and strengthened”. Similarly, the United Nations Code of Conduct for Law Enforcement Officials states “…every law enforcement agency should be representative of, and responsive and accountable to, the community as a whole”.
And so, we must work together in order to uphold the laws of this land.
MARISSA LOWDEN.