The Tribune

A National programme for at-risk young people may need to be developed in the face of a persistent crime epidemic, Catholic Archbishop Patrick Pinder said.

Delivering the sermon at the annual Red Mass for members of the legal fraternity, he noted that the inequalities in Bahamian society have created anger, envy, and disregard for the law.

Noting that something must be done, the archbishop said policing will not be enough to reverse the crime trend on its own.

He said: “We are witnessing what appears to be the erosion of light and the spread of darkness. So many of the acts of human depravity which we used to hear of in the news from other countries and decry, are becoming commonplace here now.

“Although Isaiah tells us that the glory of the Lord shines upon us, some may be doubtful, given the events of the last four days in 2013 and the first few days of the new year.”

Mentioning a mentorship programme run by the Catholic church, Archbishop Pinder said it is “remarkable” how young men have responded to it.

“It is also remarkable how their academic performance improves beyond expectations. This is a good report. “Perhaps this male mentorship programme is best suited to smaller groups in a school context.

“So I add, with a superabundance of caution, now may be the time for us to look again at a national programme focused on at-risk young men.

“The programme should be realistic in its goals and its methods. It should seek to instil healthy lifestyles, positive social attitudes and most importantly skills training.

“It should be effective in attaining these goals. It should be cost effective so that its burden on the national purse is sustainable.”