Crime fighting and national security efforts got a significant boost this week as firm steps were taken to put in place a secure Internet portal at the Ministry of National Security. 

A partnership forged by the security ministry and international information technology firm IBM, to facilitate the development of the Internet portal was sealed with an official contract-signing ceremony.

Speaking at the event at the ministry's New Kingston head-quarters, minister of national security, Trevor MacMillan, said the portal would increase the capabilities of the ministry in fighting crime and protecting Jamaica's sovereignty.

"The improvement of the ministry's information technology capabilities are of significant importance," MacMillan said. "The vision of the Ministry of National Security and the course it proposes to chart in strengthening and modernising the organisation seem to fit well within the mould of IBM." 

Partnership 

MacMillan said the partnership would address some of the ministry's strategic objectives, which include maintaining public order and reducing the rate and fear of violent crime. He also mentioned that the implementation of the new system would facilitate a better justice system, in addition to increasing Jamaica's contribution, both regionally and internationally, to security. 

Success 

IBM Sales Manager Gordon Foot told The Gleaner at the signing that the corporation had secured the Internet portals in other Caribbean countries with much success and stressed that Jamaica could expect similar results.

"We have used it in other countries in the Caribbean and it has helped them to be more effective in their crime fighting, getting information faster and allowing them to operate more effectively," he said.