KINGSTON, CMC – Jamaica’s borders are now more secure following the commissioning into service of a surveillance aircraft acquired by the Jamaica Defense Force (JDF). Prime Minister Andrew Holness said the investment in the new aircraft demonstrates the Government’s commitment to secure Jamaica.
Speaking on Wednesday at the commissioning ceremony for the Maritime Patrol Aircraft, Hangar and Helicopters, Holness said the acquisition of the fleet of aircraft for the JDF is historic and a demonstrable step that the Government is securing Jamaica’s future for present and generations to come.
Will help to reduce crime
“What we are doing is ensuring we make an investment in securing our borders, increasing our domain awareness not just because it sounds great but because it will have a practical effect for the man on the street in Jamaica. You will see crime going down in your communities as a result of this investment. But more than that, it also signals Jamaica’s intention to do more with our blue economy,” said Holness.
The Prime Minister explained that Jamaica must utilize available assets to combat crime.
Won’t allow threats
“There is a plan to secure Jamaica, regardless of what anyone says. What is clear, day by day, is that the plan is unfolding, and you are seeing more than just the unfolding. You are seeing results. The Government continues to be strategic with its intent,” said Holness who declared the Government will not allow any threats to weaken the state.
Referring to regional security, Holness said, “Jamaica intends to cooperate and collaborate with its traditional partners even more than we do now but also within CARICOM to ensure that the Caribbean region itself is secure and with the considerations of climate change we also have to consider the ability to respond to natural disasters. These assets will also give us some capabilities in that regard. It is an investment in our security, it’s an investment in our economy and it is also an investment in our resilience as a small island state.”
Commendation to JDF personnel
The Prime Minister also used the opportunity to commend the men and women of the JDF and expressed the investments in security should leave every Jamaican feeling confident and proud of the security forces.
“Increased security has significant economic benefits for Jamaica. It is the foundation of our plan to develop Jamaica into a place of choice to live, work, do business, raise your families and as I always like to add – retire in paradise,” he said.
The JDF commissioned a King Air 350 aircraft and two of nine Bell 429 Helicopters which will be used for border patrol, rescue efforts and security.
