parents are willing to stand up to young troublemakers. The time has come for parents to take responsibility for the bad behaviour of their children. In many countries today they can be held legally and financially responsible for the actions of their children.

We were very interested in the strong opinions and the strong comments expressed at the meeting at the Bermuda Industrial Union's headquarters which discussed, among other matters, violence and lawlessness among young people.

The parents objected to the early closing of public schools on Hallowe'en and to the curtailing of the evening buses on that day in response to anticipated acts of violence.

One parent was quoted as saying: "We must not play up to them. It is a minority of students who carry on in this manner.'' We think it is very important to remember that it is a minority who are spoiling things and causing disruptions for the majority. Unfortunately it only takes a few to cause disruption but if they are allowed to curtail bus service to the general public and to force early closing of schools then they are given far too much power. Once they are given that power, they will continue their actions in order to achieve greater control until they become something close to terrorists.

The Rev. Leonard Santucci was quoted as saying, "This kind of running and hiding is for the birds.

"We must present a united front and stand and be counted and let anyone who engages in lawlessness know that their actions will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.'' That is tough talk but it is good to see that something is finally happening.

People are growing both fed-up and concerned.

We think that the only solution to the problems is for parents and those in positions of influence over young people, like ministers and teachers, to take control. Talk to the young people. Make it clear to them what damage they are doing to themselves and to their fellow students.

We continue to be concerned that some of this misguided behaviour is being provoked by older people. Those in charge should make it clear to young people that they are being misled and those who try to influence bad behaviour are leading them into dangerous areas. There is absolutely nothing wrong with protecting our young people from destructive influences.

Bermuda must take back the schools, the buses and the streets from hooligans if for no other reason than for the sake of the great majority of young people who do not misbehave and who want to learn and get on.