Jamaica’s reputation has improved

ICONGRATULATE the Port Security Corps (PSC) on reaching the significant milestone of its 30th anniversary.

Jamaica’s early foray into this specialised area of border protection and security is a concept that is now being accepted internationally. Our neighbour to the north, the United States, has subsequently created the Transportation Security Administration with similar objectives, following the 9/11 terror act, as a separate border-control entity.

Whereas Jamaica’s efforts have been focused on drugs, similar principles have been brought to bear, particularly in airport screening and passenger security. It is in this area that the Jamaican public is most familiar with the work of the

PSC and you earning the respect of local passengers and tourists alike. An equally important area, but not so well known, is the work to eliminate drug contamination of Jamaican exports.

Although there is much to be done to improve the overall capability of the PSC, Jamaica can say with some degree of pride and satisfaction that through the work of the PSC over the last 30 years, things have improved significantly. No longer do we frequently hear of airplanes and cargo vessels being detained and/or fined in foreign ports for breaches related to the illegal entry of contrabands and drugs.

On this alone, the Corps deserves our gratitude because Jamaica’s reputation has improved among industry stakeholders in the international business community.

I therefore take this opportunity to extend best wishes to you for your continued success in your endeavours, and for a successful month of anniversary activities.

God bless you all, and God bless Jamaica.