Over $2 Billion Allocated to Bolster Operations at JDF and JCF

Just over $2 billion has been set aside in the Estimates of Expenditure, now before the House of Representatives, to bolster the operational capabilities of the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) and the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF).

The larger share of the sum, of $1.13 billion, will go towards activities at the JDF. This includes $430.7 million to facilitate repairs and improvements to the barracks at Up Park Camp; and $400 million for the purchase and overhaul of aircraft, and repairs of two twin-engine helicopters.

In addition, $150 million will go towards the improvement of service buildings, such as the construction of a jetty at the HMJS Cagway, Port Royal; while $100 million will be spent to facilitate the purchase of spare parts, and the dry docking of a ship to enhance its seagoing capabilities.

The remaining $50 million will be used to purchase operational and administrative vehicles.

Meanwhile, the JCF’s Maintenance of Law and Order programme, has received a sum of approximately $941 million.

Of the amount, $324 million will go towards the construction and rehabilitation works at select police stations islandwide, while $300 million will be used to purchase vehicles and boats.

Another $249.55 million will be used for improvements of the Automated Palm and Fingerprint Identification System (APFIS), while the remaining $67.83 million will be used for upgrading of the Motorola Analog Digital Radio Network System (Motor Vehicle Tracking System) of the JCF.

By Chris Patterson, JIS Reporter