Ministry of National Security acquires mass-screening equipment

THE MINISTRY of National Security has acquired mass screening equipment in the form of the Eye-Detect Technology System for the recruiting of applicants for the Jamaica Constabulary Force, the Jamaica Defence Force, the Depar tment of Correctional Services, immigration officers, and other security officials.

Eye-Detect is an alternative technology system for deception detection. The system will be used for mass screening of personnel to complement in-depth polygraph examinations. It will also be used to prescreen job candidates and conduct periodic evaluations of current employees within the national security architecture.

The technology is intended to improve the efficiency of the vetting processes, particularly for applicants who wish to join the security forces. The ministry disclosed that in order to ensure the efficacy of the system, a pool of certified examiners would commence training next week.

HISTORIC MOMENT

Speaking at the handover of the system earlier this week , M inister of National Security Robert Montague said that the decision to implement Eye-Detect as part of the screening process for applicants is an important part of the improvement of the security forces.

“The Eye-Detect pilot project is a very historic moment for us at the ministry,” said Montague. “It is a game changer as we seek to raise the profile of key institutions within the national security sector, while enhancing trust between law enforcement and the citizenry. This system will allow for a more specific approach in the screening of candidates. This will ensure that we are producing the best candidates to join the security architecture,” he said.

The test is almost completely automated and will measure participation in theft, fraud, money laundering, the taking of bribes, drug use, identity theft, violent crimes, and receipt of inappropriate benefits at the workplace.