New Ticketing System to Boost Public-Order Enforcement

A new ticketing system will be introduced to help restore public order and reduce unnecessary confrontations between law-enforcement officers and individuals who breach the law.

The Ticket Information Management System, developed by the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) in partnership with the Ministry of National Security and Peace, will support the administration of fixed-penalty offences and enhance the enforcement of the Noise Abatement Act, illegal vending regulations and other public-order offences.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Security and Peace, Hon. Dr. Horace Chang, made the announcement during a statement in the House of Representatives on Tuesday (October 6).

“It will be done in a manner that is civilised, non-contentious and in keeping with 21st century operations. That is, a ticket will be issued, whether it’s [in relation to] vending or noise. Rather than to lock down a person’s dance and take away their equipment, they will be served with a ticket that, if they don’t pay, then there will be consequences. The ticket may be issued by the municipal corporation rather than having highly trained police officers drive around to contest with individuals,” he explained.

Dr. Chang said that one of the things he found most concerning was seeing young police officers confiscating a vendor’s basket of fruits and placing it in the back of a police vehicle, only to become involved in a confrontation with the individual who was simply trying to earn a living.

“We know it’s inappropriate for them to be vending in the wrong place… but a contest with the police is not the way to resolve it,” he maintained.

The Minister reasoned that as the country continues to experience a reduction in murders and other serious crimes, greater attention must now be placed on public order.

“We must ensure that the way in which the Police engage citizens is professional, proportionate and respectful. We want effective enforcement while maintaining a strong relationship between the police and the public,” he said.

Dr. Chang emphasised that a safer Jamaica would foster stronger communities, boost confidence among businesses and investors, and enhance the quality of life for citizens.

“The peace dividend must become a development dividend. Our task is to ensure that the progress we are making in security translates into greater opportunities and prosperity for the Jamaican people. There is a wider cultural change that we must pursue… we must restore a culture of peace in Jamaica.

“We want a Jamaica where violence is rejected, where the rule of law is respected, where citizens and the Police see each other as partners, and where every Jamaican can live with greater security and dignity,” he said.

Meanwhile, Dr. Chang reiterated the Government’s commitment to supporting the men and women responsible for national security, investing in the security forces, and pursuing the policies and programmes necessary to consolidate the gains achieved in creating a safer Jamaica.

“We will not yield any ground to criminals in this country. We must ensure that the reduction in violence becomes a permanent feature of our national life. We must use this improved security environment to create a stronger foundation for development, a better quality of life, and greater prosperity for our people,” he underscored