Dear Editor,

I have been reading with interest the comments regarding squatting that have surfaced since Mr Dennis Meadows made his contribution to this very vexing problem which has been a scourge on this countrys’ landscape for many years.

From my limited experience, the only real solution is to adopt a zero-tolerance policy. Every effort should be made to ensure that it never occurs, to start with, and it is with this philosophy that I would like to make a very brief suggestion.

I would like to suggest that the JDF be given responsibility to ensure the security of all government-owned lands. They have the assets, helicopters for aerial surveillance, ground transportation, manpower and training to make them the best suited for this job. This could all be done under the auspices of ensuring national security in order to overcome any legal or constitutional issues.

The services of the JDF could also be made available to private land owners for a fee to help survey their properties against squatters, and if the need arises assist in their timely removal.

I truly believe that the JDF is a highly underutilised resource and we could benefit a lot more as a nation if they were deployed with a little more practicality.

I also agree with the present government that the relocation of the JDF camp, except the museum, is essential from within the urban core of the city of Kingston, and Caymanas is a suitable location as it places it at almost an equidistant point from both the hot spots of Kingston and Spanish Town.

Furthermore, when the current Up Park Camp lands are developed to yield their highest and best uses, the taxes and other revenues and benefits that will be derived from this change of use will significantly outweigh any argument to keep it there in its antiquated and dilapidated state.

Mark N Kerr-Jarrett

Managing Director, Barnett Limited

Montego Bay, St James