Throne Speech - 'mere skeleton in need of flesh'

Several young people from inner-city communities across the Corporate Area have concluded that the Throne Speech presented by Governor General Sir Patrick Allen lacked adequate information as to how issues plaguing the country will be addressed - crime and violence being the number-one issue.

In an interview with The Gleaner yesterday, Don-Marie Thompson, university student from Mandela Terrace in Kingston, summed up the speech as mere skeleton in need of flesh.

"The issues are repetitive, some of them are nothing new but very little has been done to ensure that they are carried out. I think going forward, we have to add more flesh to the skeleton," said the 24-year-old.

Similarly, Stephanie Prince from the Olympic Gardens community said the citizens have been shackled by fear.

"This year, more than any other year, I believe persons took an interest in listening to the Throne Speech, to hear what plans are being put in place to address the issue at hand (crime). The increasing incidents of crime, especially against women and children, are literally drowning the country. I heard him mention a five-pillar plan but you wonder if it's going to work. I needed something more in terms of an in-depth plan to tackle crime," she said.

"Some of the things, such as having more policemen on the road, I believe were already implemented but what we have a problem with is enforcement. I'm not sure some of the police officers understand the seriousness of some of these issues. So in getting more policemen, make sure they are briefed and trained and they understand the issues," she said.

The young people also expressed disappointment in not hearing much said about issues such as employment, job creation, education and the economy.

Jessica Kirlew from Arnett Gardens and Tyrese Taylor of Grants Pen were also among those interviewed.