Minister of State in the Ministry of National Security, Hon. Juliet Cuthbert-Flynn, says the government will invest a further $500 million towards police infrastructure in the next fiscal year.
Speaking at the Transforming Our Police Service (TOPS) Award Ceremony organised by the Police Civilian Oversight Authority (PCOA), held in Montego Bay, St James today (November 22) the Minister emphasised the commitment made by the government to upgrade police infrastructure across the country.
“The Ministry will undertake twenty-five major renovation and repair projects at a cost of $500 million reflecting just how committed we are to enhancing the working environment of all our law enforcement officers,” the Minister announced.
In congratulating the exemplary work of the members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), Minister Cuthbert-Flynn remarked on the strides being undertaken under Project Rebuild Overhaul and Construct (Project ROC) to bring awareness to the already established partnerships.
“Recognising the critical state of police facilities, the Ministry has forged partnerships with several organisations such as the National Housing Trust (NHT) and Jamaica Social Investment Fund (JSIF) to ensure the infrastructure necessary for effective law enforcement,” the Minister emphasised.
A total of $13.3 billion will be spent on upgrading police infrastructure within the next four to five fiscal years.
The Minister used the opportunity to congratulate and reassure members of the JCF of the government’s commitment, telling the officers that the “exemplary performance of the respective police stations and divisions, is a source of encouragement.”
“I reiterate our collective commitment to support, empower and invest in our police force,” Minister Cuthbert-Flynn said.
The top station in Area 1, Bluefields Police Station, was announced at the ceremony. The event highlighted the culmination of the efforts of the four divisions in Area 1 – Westmoreland, St. James, Hanover, and Trelawny which includes a combined 35 police stations.
Recognition was also given to the winner of the inaugural TOPS Poster Competition, Adeija McBean of Westwood High School.
Since 2019, the TOPS Awards Ceremony has been established to celebrate and reward the dedication and commitment of law enforcement officers in fostering a safer and more secure Jamaica.
The ceremony includes sectional awards for the top station, division, top customer service division and top prisoners in custody station.
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