Technology at Centre of Border Security

The Government is undertaking several technology-driven initiatives to improve border security in Jamaica.

Speaking at the National Security Police Coordination Unit (NSPCU) Border Security Seminar, held recently at the National Police College of Jamaica, in St. Catherine, Minister of State in the

Ministry of National Security, Senator the Hon. Pearnel Charles Jr., said protecting the nation’s borders is one of the main objectives of the Ministry.

“We are fully committed to the increased use of technology in all aspects of national security to build a safer Jamaica,” Senator Charles said.

He noted that the Government has invested significant resources in developing Jamaica’s capacity to properly manage traffic through the major points of entry to the country.

“Our investments are bearing fruit. We have benefited from the help of our international partners, who have worked with the Government in the area of technical assistance and equipment. The Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) and the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) are now in a better position today to respond to threats from local and international criminals who violate the borders,” Senator Charles said.

The Minister of State also mentioned the investments made at the Jamaica Customs Agency (JCA) and the Passport Immigration and Citizenship Agency (PICA) as part of the effort to continue improving the monitoring and detection capabilities of border security operations.

He further noted that the use of automated kiosks at the airports and the incorporation of facial-recognition technology are being fully integrated into the border control system.

The State Minister added that the use of scanners and other electronic devices to inspect luggage and cargo at the ports of entry is taking border control operations closer to world-class standards.

He said initiatives such as the Automated System for Customs Data (ASYCUDA), introduced by Jamaica Customs, and the Port Community System (PCS), spearheaded by the Port Authority of Jamaica, are also other examples of leveraging technology to improve border security and, ultimately, national security.

“Major investments have also been made in Information and Communications Technology (ICT) and the development of technology-driven business processes in the country,” the State Minister said.

He argued that in addition to the Government’s investments, securing the nation’s borders will demand the support of the private sector.

“The NSPCU seminar is very relevant and timely and the exchange of ideas and experiences being facilitated by the seminar is a practical move, and we are confident that the outcomes will contribute to a greater and more effective use of technology in our border security operations,” Senator Charles said.

The seminar was held under the theme ‘Leveraging Technology for Effective Border Security’.