Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Security, the Hon. Dr. Horace Chang says over 12 billion dollars is to be set aside in the new financial year for continued construction works as part of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) infrastructure modernization programme.
He was speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of the new multi-storey, state-of-the-art, Westmoreland Police Divisional Headquarters on Friday, March 15, 2024, which will cost $2.7 billion.
The Minister said details of the financial outlay will be made during his contribution to the Budget Debates.
The new facility will be located on lands formerly housing the Llandilo Community Cultural Centre with works being undertaken by local firm M and M Construction Limited, over the next two and a half years.
The Minister stated that in three years, the COVID-19 Pandemic influenced the pace at which projects were rolled out while noting the government’s commitment to transform the physical infrastructure of the force.
He pointed out that over the years, “Very little thought was given to ensure the country has an efficient, professional police force”.
Minister Chang commended the JFC for making technology a central theme in its overall push for modernization.
“With the police force just about 14,000 officers, which is near establishment and another four-thousand people in civilian roles, you are looking at a national institution of 18,000 personnel,” the Minister said, adding, “It is the largest corporation in the country”.
He said the Ministry of National Security is committed to the continued digitization process and training of police personnel that will ensure the police are in a good state.
The new Westmoreland Divisional Headquarters will be purpose-built to accommodate advanced technology solutions while hosting various departments staffed by some 300 police personnel.
This major improvement in the policing infrastructure in the parish will facilitate faster response capabilities, while also allowing for improved collaboration with the citizenry.
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