Jamaica calls on Canada’s security expertise

The two-day Jamaica-Canada Maritime Security Policy Workshop took place in Kingston. Experts from throughout the maritime security industry and leading members of the Jamaican shipping industry and related businesses discussed maritime security policy in detail, including legal frameworks, training measures, implementation strategies and future policies.

A variety of Canadian representatives talked on several key aspects of Canada’s marine security regime, including the Marine and Ports Branch of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. Representing Jamaica were officials from the Maritime Authority of Jamaica, and the Port Authority of Jamaica, along with security, coast guard, marine operatons and customs, together with a number of maritime business leaders.

Commenting on the importance of the workshop, Transport and Works Minister Michael Henry said that the country stands to reap great benefits from forged synergies: “Jamaica being an island state depends on imports and exports by sea (up to 90%) and has to satisfy international maritime conventions that are in place, including security arrangements which are consistent with international rules and regulations.”