One of the latest attempts by Government at ensuring greater social development is a move to introduce a National Health Insurance system for the people of Anguilla to which, understandably, they will have to contribute. This is both necessary and complimentary but really only touches the tip of an ice bug of problems facing the island.

Some efforts have also been made in the area of crime detection and punishment with a measure of success which has brought about a greater feeling of security among the populace. The increased work and vigilance by the police as well as some cooperation from the public have led to the seizure of guns, ammunition and drugs and the arrest of a number of persons.

While it is difficult to have a crime-free society, even in a tiny place like Anguilla, it is alarming that some of the most atrocious incidents are still continuing to bedevil the island and baffle the minds of many people including law enforcement personnel. The recent stabbing to death of a 19-year-old by other youth sent chills up the spine of the people of the island as they came face to face with the realities of violence, gang warfare and revenge in some of the communities. What a shame. Add to that last week’s shooting and serious injury of Desmond Richardson, a hard-working and quiet young businessman of West End who has lost one of his legs as a result of a bullet from an unidentified bandit presumably bent on robbing his gas station. These are chilling incidents which denote that all is not well in Anguilla.

Right now in Anguilla there is a maddening rush for money and more money--for all the material things and comforts of life. In the meantime crime appears to be is having a field day and the very prosperity over which there is such frenzied crave, is under threat by violence.
There is a need for more attention to be paid to social development to stave off some of the problems and crime we are unfortunately experiencing now that so much economic prosperity has come to Anguilla. Government needs to do more to deliver on its election promise to focus its attention on social development issues, and the people of the island need to join in to see what they can contribute towards the peace, quiet and stability of Anguilla. Surely, economic development will perish if crime is allowed to have its sway. Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord (and not money) is applicable to Anguilla.

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