No Plans to Reduce Capacity of JDF- Smith

Minister of National Security, Derrick Smith, has said that the government has no plans to reduce the capacity of the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF). “There is absolutely no need to reduce the capacity and complement of the JDF. We do not believe that this would be in the best interest of the Jamaican people,” the Minister said as he addressed the recent passing out parade for JDF recruits at the Moneague Training Camp in St. Ann.
He said that the government recognized “the relevance of the JDF to the security and well-being of Jamaicans” and expressed the appreciation “for the tremendous job that they have been doing.”
He noted that the activities of the JDF were so widespread that “it would be extremely difficult for any government to find another agency to replace them if these services were to be withdrawn”.
Congratulating the recruits, Minister Smith said, “I wish you every success in your career in the JDF.”
In the meantime, he pledged the government’s commitment to protecting the rights of all “our people, including their human and civil rights.”