Gov’t is walking the walk on NIDS
THE EDITOR, Madam:
IN THIS time of uncertainty and change, it feels good that the Government and the people are on the same page, or at least finally have been reading from the same book. For the past few years, amid all the other national topics that have dominated the media, the National Identification System (NIDS) has been ever-present. We have seen its development go from ‘zero public consideration and mass rejection’, to a slow evolution of ‘being open to its adoption, given public opinion inclusion in its recraft.’
While watching the debate on the new bill in Parliament recently, I had to stop and think about the entire process. We must say kudos to the Andrew Holness-led Government for gracefully accepting the Supreme Court’s ruling in 2019, having found aspects of the National Identification and Registration Act to be unconstitutional.
Beyond the court’s ruling, the Government pivoted and restarted the process, making every step transparent; inviting and encouraging the public’s input every step of the way. Equally impressive is the partnership of the Ruling Government with the Opposition to get to a bill that they both believed could achieve the intended objectives without infringing on an individual’s rights.
The new 2021 bill was guided by a joint select committee, with virtual town hall and stakeholder meetings to both educate the public on NIDS objectives, as well as to collect information on public concerns about the NIDS. This inclusiveness is what our country needs and is a true demonstration of democracy. It was no surprise to me or to anyone who had a genuine unbiased interest in the development of the NIDS, that when it was tabled the second time it had a more positive reception.
What I do know is that anyone who has a genuine love for our country and hopes to grow our economy and global status, knows the importance of participating on a global platform, which presents itself digitally. For citizens to participate in this digital, global space, a digital identity is needed. I do believe that most Jamaicans always knew that a national ID was needed to access benefits; the issue was with how it was presented. I for one look forward to hearing more, learning more, and being able to apply for my own NIDS card.
Let me pause to recommend that ‘openness’ continues to be the way forward for the roll-out of the NIDS. I await the debate in the Senate around the new bill. Let us continue to watch closely the demonstration of democracy as Jamaica prepares for its overdue, formal entry into the digital society – thanks to the partnership and constant conversation, compromise and work of a Government, Opposition, and its people.
SEIGE FEARON