Thursday’s report about the Police Force and Voluntary Corps VKS teaming up to help secure the island during the coming period is good news. It’s obvious the tourism season won’t be near what it used to be, which makes nourishing and protecting what is there even more important.
Having the paramilitary organisation VKS provide 10 members per day may not seem like all that many, but considering the existing personnel shortage, 24/7 nature of the job and related shifts, any assistance is undoubtedly appreciated.
Dutch police are also very much part of the current law enforcement picture and their support in terms of both manpower and materials is clearly needed. Recent word that their stay may be extended beyond January 1 is therefore most welcome.
The severe economic blow delivered by Hurricane Irma and subsequent widespread looting are having dire consequences as people lose income and/or work. Unemployment and poverty have been acknowledged as some of the factors that can lead to an increase in crime and society, including the business community, must be adequately protected from that kind of development to prevent making an already bad situation worse.
At the same time, every effort should continue to be made to alleviate some of the most pressing social problems such as food on the table and a roof over one’s head. Up to now those involved in such have often been doing a heck of a job, but they will need to keep at it for now.
