PERMANENT SECRETARY in the Ministry of National Security and Justice, Gilbert Scott has said the Government is moving to strengthen coast guard capabilities to secure Jamaica's borders through the provision of more go-fast boats, some of which have already been acquired.
While outlining measures by Government to support maritime security in Jamaica, Mr. Scott noted significant investment to make ports more secure through the introduction of state-of-the-art machinery and equipment designed to prevent and detect the trafficking of illegal weapons and ammunition.
He was addressing delegates at the recently concluded Caribbean Shipping Association's Annual General Meeting, Conference and Exhibition at the Half Moon Hotel in Montego Bay.
SAFETY PROCEDURES
"Security and safety procedures for passengers, crews and vessels have also been enhanced with the introduction of equipment to detect nuclear, biological and chemical explosives thereby ensuring the security and safety of our citizens," Mr. Scott reported, adding that global developments dictated that Jamaica prepare for "an expanding global marketplace in which it can facilitate the free and secure movement of people and products along trade corridors".
He said prior to the International Maritime Organisation's (IMO) International Ships and Port Facility Security Code (ISPS) to be enforced by July 1, 2004, Jamaica had taken steps or was in the process of enhancing maritime security. He expressed confidence that this level of preparation would allow Jamaica to meet more easily the new security standards and requirements of the new Code.
The Permanent Security, who was speaking on behalf of National Security Minister, Dr. Peter Phillips, also pointed to the relevance of forging partnerships locally and overseas. He cited the emphasis being placed on establishing a higher level of partnership to modernise maritime interdiction capabilities.
SIGNIFICANT RESPONSES
"We have had significant responses to our efforts at engaging countries like the United Kingdom and the United States... they have shown tangible support by making equipment and resources available to us in a number of areas," he said.
He said the Port Authority of Jamaica was a key stakeholder (in the industry). The PAJ is involved in several international and bi-governmental programmes to enhance security at local borders and facilitate free trade and the free movement of people and goods.
Mr. Scott noted that the enactment of Port Security Legislation would enable governmental authorities to have control over the security standards at all ports and determine access to these ports.
"The Port Security Act which is aimed at setting and maintaining security standards for all public and private ports has been introduced and includes provision for the establishment of a Security Agency to monitor and implement security standards at each of the ports as well as gather intelligence concerning port-related threats."
He said the Agency would make recommendations to the Minister of National Security for the adoption of any security regulations and security standards established by international organisations.
"Additionally we have sought through the legislation to empower the Port Security Agency to conduct employment investigations on all employees with access to the ports/ and impose restrictions for sensitive security positions," Mr. Scott said.
