National Security Policy Ready

Work on the first phase of the new National Security Policy being developed by the Ministry of National Security, has been completed.

Portfolio Minister, Hon. Peter Bunting, speaking at a media briefing on his first 100 days in office at his New Kingston offices on Wednesday April 18, 2011,  said this phase of the project relates to the identification and analysis of Tier I threats (clear and present danger) to Jamaica’s national security. 

He advised that the Ministry is preparing a summary report for general publication by month-end.

The National Security Policy, which forms part of the administration’s strategic policy response to crime and violence, sets out the new priorities, policies and strategies for the period 2012 to 2017.

 Key imperatives include: more aggressive use of the Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA); focus on key players and their facilitators in illicit activities, such as money laundering; addressing what the Minister described as “dysfunctional elements” in the judicial system; accelerating reform of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF); adopting a strong, coherent anti-gang strategy; and rehabilitating communities deemed “at risk”, through regeneration and employment creation programmes.

By Douglas McIntosh, JIS Reporter