Grand concerts, lectures and clean-up drives will be hosted by the Anglican church in celebration of this country's 50th anniversary of Independence Bishop Claude Berkley has said.

Berkley was speaking at a press conference yesterday at 2 Hayes Street, St Clair, at which he raised concerns over the crime situation in the country as well as racial discrimination and instances of corruption.

Berkley said the anniversary events will signal to the people of this country, especially the youths, all that they have to be thankful for as the country continues to battle challenges.

There will be three concerts. The first will be held on September 16 at the auditorium of Bishop Anstey/Trinity College East, the second at St Paul's Church, Harris Promenade, San Fernando and the third in Tobago (details to be announced).

Berkley said tickets for these concerts are priced at $100 and can be purchased at parish offices and the Diocesan office, 2 Hayes Street, St Clair.

Berkley said there will be performances by a number of artistes including Heather McIntosh, Black Stalin, Shortpants, the Bishop Anstey High School choir and steelbands among others.

In addition a thanksgiving service will be held on Republic Day, September 25 at 10.30 a.m. at the Cathedral Church of the Holy Trinity, Port of Spain.

The two lectures,Berkley said, will take place in October and will be organised by Dr Rita Pemberton of the University of the West Indies (UWI) and aim at showcasing the contribution of the Anglican faith to the country over the years.

With respect to the environment, Berkley said different parishes and schools will engage in planting trees, cleaning up the environment through recycling projects and also beautifying parks and cemeteries.

He added that the Anglican Church will also be part of the week of prayer with the Inter Religious Organisation (IRO) from August 19 and which culminates with a day of prayer at the Ato Boldon Stadium on August 26.

Commenting on the disclosure of acting Commissioner of Police (CoP) Stephen Williams that the violent crimes in this country are committed by those in the age group 14 to 29, Berkley told the Express that the institutions of the church, home and school are not as powerful on the child as they were before.

He said that family is falling apart. There are different viewpoints in schools and problems such as bullying and young people turning to gangs as opposed to going to church, he added.

Berkley urged parents to mentor their children and lead them into the right path and provide a good example for others.