Contraband Detection Machinery to be Purchased

The Government is to procure contraband detection machinery and equipment this fiscal year, as it moves to strengthen the island’s customs control and security.

A sum of $2.58 billion has been allocated under the Fiscal Administration Modernisation Programme for the project, as outlined in the 2016/17 Estimates of Expenditure, now before the House.

The overall objective of the programme is to support the Government to achieve a sustainable fiscal position by strengthening the Ministry of Finance and the Public Service’s institutional capacity to effectively improve Customs, Inland Tax Collections, manage debt and government payment operations.

It is also expected that for the 2016/17 period under the programme, a fire suppression system will  be installed at New Port East; a new back-up generator unit is to be installed; and additional video surveillance equipment will be installed.

Further, it is anticipated that the asset, facilities and inventory management system is to be implemented; the East Street building renovation works of the Tax Administration office to commence; implementation of Single Window for International Trade Regulation to commence; and analytical tool for reporting to be procured.

Physical achievements of the programme up to January 2016 included: Video Access and Surveillance System installed at Constant Spring and King Street Tax Offices; new printer procured for identification (ID) cards; and Internal Audit retooled with computers.

In addition, some TAJ staff members were trained in software security and as business analysts; major renovation works were completed on the Bay West Training Centre; a generator was acquired and installed at East Street building; and e-filing facilities installed at St. Andrew Revenue Service Centre (RSC).

A business process review report was prepared and is awaiting management approval; stakeholder consultations and legal preparations were started for a Port Community System; a new Budget Preparation and Management System was procured; and Accounting System and Loan Management software was acquired with licences.

The programme, which began in December 2011, is being implemented by the Ministry of Finance and the Public Service with funding from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB). It is slated to end in December 2016.