PRIME Minister PJ Patterson, acknowledging the depths of criminal evil to which Jamaica has sunk, said however that hope has emerged from recent police successes and the implementation of new crime fighting measures.

Patterson, in his New Year’s Message, his last as head of government, was buoyed by recent increases in the police force, which, he said, is now better trained and equipped.

He also spotlighted the acquisition of state-of-the-art technological equipment to facilitate better follow up of intelligence and improved crime scene investigation techniques.

“We have witnessed the apprehension of some of the most notorious gang leaders and others who make their living from murder and extortion,” said the PM.

“I thank those citizens and members of various organisations who have cooperated fully with our security forces. Fighting crime is national problem. It cannot be a source for making partisan points on the basis of economic status, social class or political affiliation. We must all be at one in order to succeed.”

Patterson, who will demit office by April, also, in his national address to the country, gave prominence to projects and recent capital investment flows that have been a boon to the economy.

Noting that the economic expansion taking place in the island will open up the job markets, Patterson also urged young people to become qualified to compete for jobs.

A 1,000 hotel rooms were added to the complement last year, and more construction is underway.

“Work has begun on Segment III of the North Coast Highway, bringing new employment and economic opportunities for the residents in the surrounding areas,” said the PM. “Early in the New Year, we will be breaking ground for the US120 million expansion of the Rockfort Carib Cement factory that will double its capacity.”

He added: “The slew of investments underway will spur economic growth, create jobs and fuel business confidence.”