JCA Gets New Vehicles

The mobile fleet of the Jamaica Customs Agency (JCA) has been increased, with the acquisition of five new motor vehicles purchased at a cost of just over $36.1 million.

The vehicles, inclusive of three pickups, a truck, a bus and a motor car, were acquired from auto dealers Toyota Jamaica, Stewart’s, and Fidelity Motors.

They will serve to boost the JCA’s border protection capabilities and operational and administrative operations.

The vehicles were commissioned by State Minister for Finance and the Public Service, Hon. Rudyard Spencer, during a ceremony at the JCA’s head office at Newport East in Kingston on September 30.

In welcoming the acquisition, Mr. Spencer urged the staff to treat the vehicles as incentives for their hard work.

“I am always one to champion the cause and rights of workers, for them to receive the necessary resources… and this commissioning speaks to the recognised value of you the team members,” the State Minister said.

Mr. Spencer gave the Government’s undertaking do everything possible to ensure that “you are able to continue making the immense contributions that you do make to the strengthening of the Jamaican economy”.

He also commended JCA Chief Executive Officer and Commissioner of Customs, Major (Ret’d) Richard Reese, on his strategic approach to effectively manage the agency.

For his part, Major Reese described the acquisition of the vehicles as “another historic moment for the agency”.

Outlining some of the JCA’s operations, he said assets acquired, established or refurbished “inure to the benefit of the staff and for service delivery that we are committed to”.

Customs officer, Ann-Marie Campbell Bell, who spoke on behalf of the staff, welcomed the acquisition, while thanking the stakeholders who made it possible.

She also gave an undertaking to ensure that the vehicles are used for their intended purposes and are properly maintained.