By Glenroy Sinclair, Staff ReporterTARDINESS ON the part of the Government in providing the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) with a $40 million grant to improve its mobility is having a negative impact on the Force.
A new fleet of motor vehicles promised since April has not materialised and, according to a high-ranking police official, police officers are often unable to respond quickly when called.
60% NEED MAJOR WORK
Currently, 165 units are parked at the Police Transport and Repairs Division, with more than 60 per cent in need of major work. This includes body work and new engines. The Gleaner has been informed that the $40 million was to have been used to purchase about 45 new vehicles from Japan, through a prominent local car dealer.
Contacted yesterday, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of National Security, Gilbert Scott, who at one stage had written to the Ministry of Finance about the funds, was unavailable to give an update on the matter.
"Mr. Scott is in a meeting," said one of his secretaries, who spoke with The Gleaner on several occasions yesterday.
occasions yesterday. The Police High Command has requested that the strength of the fleet be increased to 1,500.
"The parts for the Pajeros are too expensive. It would be more economical to replace these vehicles than to repair them," said a sub-officer at the Transport and Repairs Division.
According to police records, the JCF's current fleet consists of 1,250 vehicles. Of that number, 660 are more than nine years old and have become very costly to maintain; 886 are more than four years old; 200 are recommended for the Board of Survey because of age.
Vehicles over nine years are uneconomic as operating cost is above the standard cost (fuel, tyres and oil).
