Failed by whom?
I wish to congratulate you for your so very timely editorial 'Excuses, excuses (October 20) about the armed robbery of a Kaitaia dairy by a local 12-year old-boy. Immediately out come the bleeding heart liberals and their excuses for the boy's behaviour - failures in "the system" or "a village to raise a child" etc ad nauseam. It is always someone else's fault.
This child was badly failed by those responsible for raising him. He had access to drugs, alcohol and a firearm. "The system" did not allow him access to these dangers - his carers did.
I also agree with Mr Jackson that anyone making, using, or dealing with methamphetamine should be sentenced to life imprisonment - and make that life, not the usual slap with the over-mentioned bus ticket.
This article should be published in every newspaper in the country - every year.