Crime in check

In reply to Gaz Vockins, Horowhenua Chronicle Friday March 17, the latest statistics demonstrate that crime is being kept in check.

“Central District Police now records approximately 18,000 fewer offences than in 1996 when population estimates were first broken down to Police area level.”

The Foxton police force actively work with secondary school young people through such programmes as CACTUS. The fact that the NZ Government has reduced the number of policing areas in Central Districts from six to three, means they have only three commanders covering a larger area.

The fact that the NZ Government has driven working people into the ground, jobs are hard to find, young people can’t get into the job market, too much competition and employers want experienced staff. Apprenticeship places are limited. Learning and courses can only help so far.

Having to beg for government assistance to live. All contribute to young and not so young, being left on the scrap heap, having no self worth or motivation in life.

I am not condoning crime but it is easy to see how our young people and the general population are finding life really tough. Something has to give. Being critical will do nothing to solve the situation. (abridged)

MAUREEN DUNN

Levin