Lead by better example

March 28, 2003

Dear Sir,

As a facilitator with the PTB Ambassador Programme, I've had the privilege during the past five weeks to observe treatment towards our youth. I notice many of the youth are being stereotyped no matter what age they are. This is a dangerous trend for an adult to take as it denies the child room to grow under the direction that some parents have tried very hard to create. For example, an adult gets on a bus full of school children and a child asks the adult "would you like a seat? " The reply was: "If it doesn't hurt you."

What are the chances of that child asking another adult the same question? For a child to offer shows someone has taken the time to explain common courtesy. This action has damaged the parental guidance given to that child and no doubt other children who heard. The children will presumably keep that response in mind. Our youth can't take the pressure of insult from those they expect to be role models.

The example above shows how adults can damage our youth. Some youth have already chosen to bow to peer pressure by the system that we created. We react to them accordingly but my argument is not in their favour. It's for the young person who is out there trying so hard to do the right thing. And believe me there are those who still have a chance. They are depending on adults to recognise and respond to their needs, give them guidance and be their role model. They need to avail themselves of programs which would assist them in dealing effectively with peer pressure.

The responsibility of us as adults is one which should not be taken lightly. We are automatic role models (whether we accept it or not). So be careful what you say or do to our children and what brand you put on them. I beg you to take the time to encourage those showing promise and to end up discouraging their efforts by your words.

The PTB Ambassador Program trains its Operators how to deal with all situations and encourages them to recognise the importance of the consequences their choices bring about. If our Operators are expected to perform by a standard of professionalism, they need a role model prior to getting behind the wheel so they can take pride in their job. It's the same with our youth: if we expect them to be successful, we must change our approach and treat them in a manner that allows them to feel good about themselves. If we each do our part in trying to understand and assist our young people in a positive manner, we've done a lot to ensure a bright future for our Island. May others who dare to observe share my opinion.

RAYMOND A.E. SWAN

Warwick

Where was the audit?

March 26, 2003

Dear Sir,

Prior to the 1998 General Election the accounting systems and controls applicable to the contributory pension fund were not appropriate and effective according to the auditor because of overdue pension contributions, which remained unpaid and unaccounted for. This should have been addressed by the Ministry of Finance.

In addition, out of the Public Service Superannuation Fund some pensioners benefited from a fund to a much larger extent than that to which they contributed to the fund. One can understand how this came about especially in relation to the contribution pension fund as the last actuarial report was done in 1993.

Under the UBP and the auditor, the contributory pension fund remained unqualified for the 12 years. By the middle of 1998 it was estimated that some $20-$25 million was owed to the Government. In 1998, the contributory pension fund statements for 1995, 1996, and 1997 had still not been audited. Given the hardship encountered by our senior citizens whose pension benefits were reduced due to unpaid or partially paid employers' contributions.

My fellow Bermudians all the above and more happened under the UBP and they want us to give them the chance to repeat their gross mismanagement. Remember the past reveals the future.

RAYMOND RUSSELL Sr.

Pembroke

Not calling the Police

March 19, 2003

Dear Sir,

I am a Bermuda born citizen. I retired several years ago, looking forward to a less stressful life - a time to enjoy the natural beauty of this island. How disillusioned I was!

I have always been completely supportive of law and order. This means that I have been faithfully reporting infractions of the law to the police. However, by reporting my concerns I am now finding out that, to the Police, I am a nuisance and a bigger problem than those who blatantly break the law. When I call the Police regarding my concerns, the response too often is, "What's the problem now..." Therefore, I will no longer be reporting violations to them.

Since I always try to be a law-abiding citizen, I find it most stressful to see a significant faction of the population flouting every conceivable law, not on a monthly or weekly basis but on an hourly basis. What is the ultimate stress is to see the police observe these infractions and do nothing about it. How pitiful they look! The Police have absolutely no right to compromise our laws. Their responsibility is to uphold and enforce our laws and make Bermuda a pleasant and comfortable place for all people. There are few places in Bermuda where people can recreate in a pleasant and safe environment. As a senior citizen, I no longer feel safe on this Island and am gradually being forced to become a recluse - a prisoner in my own home.

I presently see Bermuda as a place of law and disorder. I am deeply disappointed in the path the authorities have mapped out for us. I have lived long enough to see Bermuda lose its charm and become a country of aggression, violence, and disrespect for law and order. I have lose faith in the ability of the police to provide us with a safe and pleasant environment.

I sincerely hope those in authority see the need for a Police/politician retreat somewhere to assess their performance. I feel they have become lost and confused.

SENIOR CITIZEN

Sandys

P.s. To the competent and pleasant police who are making a significant contribution to Bermuda, please keep it up. There are not enough of you - Perhaps your efforts will turn the Police Service around to the Force it used to be.