Martin Reassures That Security Forces Remain Proactive
~~Adz:Right~~Basseterre, St. Kitts, July 11, 2008 (SKNIS): Honourable Dr. Earl Asim Martin sought to reassure residents that the security forces in St. Kitts and Nevis remain proactive as the transition to a new Minister of National Security takes place.
Minister Martin assumed the post of Acting Minister of National Security on July 1, in the wake of the impending resignation of Honourable G. A. Dwyer Astaphan from the Cabinet of Prime Minister, Honourable Dr. Denzil Douglas. Approximately four months ago, Minister Astaphan advised the Prime Minister that he was prepared to “stand down as a Minister effective July 31st.”
His departure will fulfill an election promise where he outlined that if successfully elected to serve a third term, he would demit the post as a Government Minister before the next general election. Minister Astaphan is currently on vacation. He will however, remain as an elected representative in the Federal Parliament until the House is dissolved.
Minister Martin told SKNIS that he is stepping into a familiar role, having acted in this capacity on several occasions when Minister Astaphan was away on Government business or on vacation.
Earlier this week, Minister Martin supported by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of National Security Astona Browne along with members of the Police High Command updated Cabinet on a number of security initiatives being implemented to curb violent crimes. A key part of the strategy features an increased presence by the security forces in “hot spots” as well as improved intelligence gathering.
The public also has a part to play as stressed by the Acting Minister of National Security. “Crime is a national issue and crime boils right back down to the family and we need to begin to take responsibility for our children,” he said touching on a firm belief he holds. “We have to take responsibility for what is happening in our homes and in our communities. The police will deal with each crime as they occur … but it is impossible for them to be everywhere at the same time.”
“The Government will do what we have to do; the security forces will do what they have to do and the community, parents, families and church [all have a role to play],” Minister Martin added. He also called for the security forces to remain vigilant and to ensure that crime fighting strategies are sustainable.
The full interview with Honourable Dr. Earl Asim Martin will air on next week’s edition of SKNIS’ radio magazine, Perspectives.
