Security Ministry to Focus on Service Delivery

Minister of National Security, Hon. Peter Bunting, says the Ministry will be seeking to improve the delivery of service in all its agencies, through the establishment of standards and benchmarks.

"This focus on service delivery is a determined effort to ensure consistency with the overall goals of modernisation in keeping with our intention to take a more holistic approach to the responsibilities of the portfolio,” he stated in a message to the diplomatic corps yesterday (Feb.1) at the Courtleigh Hotel in Kingston.

In the message read by Director of International Security Relations at the Ministry, Karl Hamilton, Mr. Bunting said that at the Firearm Licensing Authority, for example, the Ministry will be aiming to reduce the standard of response time to applications. “This will reduce the backlog of applications and enhance its efficiency,” he noted.

He informed that measures will also be put in place to foster operational improvements at the Passport, Immigration and Citizenship Authority (PICA), in respect of the standard response time to applications.

"PICA will also be exploring the use of enhanced technology to improve the safety and security of travel documents issued, as well as integration of its operations with other law enforcement entities, to detect the movement of criminals in and out of Jamaica and the Caribbean Region,” Mr. Bunting said.

Meanwhile, he said the Ministry continues to take a zero tolerance approach to corruption within its agencies and departments, informing that the Jamaica Constabulary Force’s (JCF) Anti-Corruption Branch, continues to reap success from its efforts in going after corrupt cops, who tarnish the image of the force.

Minister Bunting told the diplomats that Jamaica remains committed to providing the leadership, and the resources to maintain law and order, and thanked the various governments represented for their support in these efforts.

“We want to assure you that we will rely on your support as we seek to achieve public safety and security for all in this our Jamaica the place of choice to live, work, raise families and do business,” he stated.

The annual diplomatic week from January 29 to February 3, is organised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade.

It includes the customary presentation of diplomatic credentials to the Governor-General or the Prime Minister, and the Foreign Minister, by High Commissioners and Ambassadors, who have been newly appointed by their Governments. 

By Latonya Linton, JIS Reporter