TRANSPORT AND Works Minister Robert Pickersgill recently reported that Jamaica's port security programme was well advanced. He said the focus of the programme was on major ports engaged in commercial and cruise shipping activities such as Port Bustamante in Kingston and the ports of Ocho Rios and Montego Bay.
Smaller ports and sufferance wharves were also receiving attention to ensure readiness for the July 1 certification deadline for International Ship and Port Facility (ISPS) Code, the Minister added. Mr. Pickersgill was addressing the 35th Annual Conference of the International Association of Airports and Seaports Police (IAASP) at the Wyndham Rose Hall in Montego Bay.
The conference took place from June 20 - 25 under the theme: 'Port Security: The New Reality'. The Minister pointed out that the programme involved the acquisition and implementation of several security systems, most of which were already in place. "The enhanced security measures are already proving effective in the detection of narcotics and other contraband," he said, while pointing out that overseas experts were in the island working with the new systems and conducting training for effective operation.
Citing external assistance for the programme being implemented by the Port Authority of Jamaica, he said the Government appreciated the support from the United States Embassy and several U.S. federal organisations involved in law enforcement as well as the U.S. Customs.
Giving statistics on the shipping industry he reported 3,847 calls by cargo carriers to Jamaica ports, including transshipment carrying some 25.6 million metric tons of cargo. He said there were 491 cruise ship calls transporting 1,124, 918 visitors to the island.
SIGNIFICANT CONTRIBUTION
Turning to the airports, he reported that the airport had continued to make a significant contribution to the economy, with movement last year of over 4.5 million passengers and approximately 23.5 million kilograms of freight. "Globalisation poses complex challenges to ports. We are indeed all in this together. By its very nature trade dictates that there is interaction and movement of goods and people between ports of different jurisdictions," he said.
He added: "We are aware that the security profile of the port in one jurisdiction will in the new post-July dispensation impact seriously on the capacity of another port with which it is doing business to pursue its usual trade with ports in other jurisdiction."
Also bringing greetings, President of the Shipping Association of Jamaica Harry Maragh said the viability of the regional trade depended on the level of compliance with this requirement of the ISPS Code. "We are committed to the process and we are committed to contributing to policy formulation and participation in discussions" stated the SAJ President.
