Over $17 Billion in Capital Projects for JCF

More than $17 billion in capital projects has been committed as the Government continues to invest in strengthening the physical infrastructure of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF).

The objective is to provide modern, fit-for-purpose facilities for both police officers and members of the public that they serve.

“Despite the impact of Hurricane Melissa, 27 restoration projects valued at $2 billion are already under way or scheduled to commence,” said Governor-General, His Excellency the Most Hon. Sir Patrick Allen, noting that a specialised operations facility is among the priority projects for the new legislative year.

He was delivering the Throne Speech under the theme ‘Building Forward: Enhancing Resilience, Expanding Opportunity’, at the ceremonial opening of Parliament for the 2026/27 Financial Year at Gordon House on Thursday (February12).

He stated that technology development also continues apace, with the C5 (Command, Control, Communications, Computers, and Cyber) Business Solution to be implemented this fiscal year, and upgrades to JamaicaEye.

Expansion of the Ticketing Information Management System (TIMS) will be undertaken to support improved public order.

The Governor-General noted that legislative reform remains a key pillar of Jamaica’s national security agenda, with amendments to the Aliens Act, the Immigration Restriction Act, and the Firearms Act progressing.

Reform of the Corrections Act, and review of the public-order legislation, will also be prioritised.

Meanwhile, the Governor-General said that execution of the Government’s security programme, Plan Secure Jamaica, continues to deliver strong results, most notably the significant decline in crime and violence, particularly murders and shootings.

He pointed out that since 2023, Jamaica has recorded a sustained and accelerating reduction in homicides, with this momentum continuing into 2026.

“In January 2026, murders declined by 55 per cent compared with the same period in 2025. The long-held dream of a safer, more peaceful Jamaica is no longer distant, it is steadily becoming a reality that Jamaicans can see and feel in their communities,” the Governor-General affirmed.

He said the Government is ensuring that the peace dividends are felt across the wider society as all ministries, departments, and agencies work collectively to sustain peace and good public order.

The Government noted the importance of regional and international partnerships in strengthening the fight against crime.

He said that the country has strengthened its leadership through initiatives such as hosting the inaugural Caribbean Trafficking in Persons (CariTIP) Forum, establishing a regional Anti-Trafficking Coalition, and advancing the National Small Arms Control Strategy under the Reducing Small Arms and Light Weapons Joint Programme in Jamaica (SALIENT) Programme, which is a joint United Nations initiative.