KINGSTON, Jamaica - Jamaica’s National Security Minister, Dr Horace Chang has told a security conference here that the government is committed to strengthening border security.
National Security Minister Dr. Horace Chang with the Director General of the Major Organised Crime and Anti-Corruption Agency, Desmond Edwards and US diplomat Amy Tachoo (Photo JIS)Addressing the Overseas Security Advisory Council Aviation Security Conference, Chang said the Andrew Holness government remains vigilant and determined to continue to support initiatives that will improve and protect border security.
He said this is being done through policies, legislation and by equipping the ministries, departments and agencies with the necessary resources for maximum impact, particularly those involved in direct security operations.
He told the conference that security remains a priority of the government’s policy development, adding that the administration has invested significantly in bolstering the country’s security apparatus.
“As a government, we have put more resources in all areas of security,” he said, adding that key investments have been made in boosting the resources and technological capabilities of the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) and the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) to improve security.
Chang said that the conference will provide an opportunity for participants to share insights and best practices, “as we seek to continually adapt to the continuous and emerging transnational threats.
“The collaboration and input from our local and international partners across law enforcement and the aviation industry is, therefore, prudent for us to gather in such a manner to enhance the resilience of our aviation sector from the nefarious actors who threaten to disrupt the safe operations.”
Chang said the discussions from the sessions will assist in strengthening the country’s border security.
“Jamaica is an ideal location for transhipment and a good destination for tourism. We are, in fact, working hard to develop both areas of our economy, but we want to ensure that we can prevent criminal actors from participating, damaging the economy, damaging our reputation, and damaging the prospects of our people,” Chang said.
