Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Security, the Hon. Dr. Horace Chang, says an effective police force is extremely critical to improving the security environment in the country.
He stated that while an effective police force is indispensable, it must be complemented with an appropriate legislative framework, which empowers law enforcement to carry out their duties more effectively, while safeguarding the rights of all Jamaican citizens.
“Our nation faces a complex landscape of threat risks, diverse threat actors, and vulnerabilities that necessitate a robust, effective and efficient police force,” Minister Chang said, during his keynote address at the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) Passing Out Parade Ceremony held at the National Police College of Jamaica in Twickenham Park, St. Catherine today (November 29).
The Minister told the 290 new constables that “it is important to acknowledge the context in which you are joining the organisation.”
He emphasised the ongoing work by the JCF, with focus on the last five years, which he said is to further develop a national police force with its own character and philosophy.
“The complexities of the environment that you, our newest members, will be stepping into are significant, and it is essential to be prepared for the journey ahead,” Minister Chang said.
He reminded the new constables that the leadership structures of the force and the government are in place to support them.
He stated in addition that the government has been addressing the root causes of crime with significant investment in education, social services, employment opportunities, and community development to create an environment where the seeds of violence find it difficult to take root.
“The Government stands beside you, providing the necessary support, resources, and a commitment to creating a safer and more secure nation. Together, with an effective police force, a robust legislative framework, and strategic social investments, we can overcome the challenges we face and build a society where safety and justice prevail,” he told the graduates.
He noted that together, “as a united force, we can overcome the challenges posed by the epidemic of violence and work towards a safer, more harmonious society”.
The security minister noted that training of new batches of the JCF has been instrumental in equipping new constables with the skills, knowledge and resilience necessary to operate in the unpredictable nature of policing in present day Jamaica.
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