CHARLESTOWN, Nevis – The Nevis Reformation Party (NRP)-led Nevis Island
Administration has made it abundantly clear its opposition to calls by the Concerned Citizens Movement (CCM) and the People’s Action Movement (PAM) for the declaration of a State of Emergency as a means of fighting crime.
Nevis’ Deputy Governor General, His Honour Mr. Eustace John delivering the traditional
Speech from the Throne to mark the Opening of a new Session of the Nevis Island Assembly said the increasing incidence of criminal activities in the Federation is a serious threat to peace, stability, and economic development.
The government he said regards the security of the island as extremely important and will work closely with the Federal Government to eradicate the scourge of gang violence from the society.
Mr. John declared that a State of Emergency could seriously damage the tourism industry and investment climate, and create additional hardship for its people in these difficult times.
“We will give full support to the new Commissioner of Police and work with the Federal
Government to improve the mobility, surveillance and investigative capabilities of the Police Force. This will require that we increase the size of the force, provide additional incentives, improve training, and acquire additional equipment,” Mr. John told the lawmaking body.
He said Nevis Reformation Party Administration popularly re-elected for a second consecutive term will also work to improve the court system so that perpetrators are brought to justice swiftly and in accordance with the law.
“Ultimately, our efforts will be futile unless the police become more aggressive in apprehending criminals and rooting out gang violence. To improve performance, we will ensure that
screening is improved to attract officers of integrity, and that proper systems of accountability are implemented and enforced.
We are confident that the development of a modern, highly trained, and efficient Police Force will restore order and the rule of law in our country,” said Mr. John as he outlined the programmes and policies of Premier the Hon.
Joseph W. Parry Nevis Reformation Party.
Deputy Governor General John said Nevisians are aware that the apprehension of criminals is not enough to control crime as there must be a holistic approach to crime fighting which underscores the social dimension.
“To this end, we will implement programmes to improve parenting skills, to provide training for young people, to encourage mentoring, and to counsel and rehabilitate criminals and gang members. We will also develop programmes in
both the primary and secondary schools to discourage children especially boys from becoming members of gangs,” said Mr. John adding:
“The work that has already started by some private organisations will be supported and expanded by the government as we forge partnerships with civil and non-governmental organisations to deter criminal activities on our island.”
