Jamaica Eye Surveillance System
January 29, 2021 | By Hopeton O’Connor-Dennie |
Orville Grant, head of Jamaica Eye which is attached to the Ministry of National Security reported:
We launched Jamaica Eye in March 2018 along with the JCF who also uses it for traffic management and to review tapes for evidence. It is making great strides for the JCF. The JCF monitors these feeds only and not us the operators. We use features and software who look for certain things. At times partners are concerned about their privacy. There are cameras attached to stop lights, government buildings, and stop lights. These cameras are tamper proof and based on international best practices as it relates to certain installation practices and locations. “
Orville Grant was speaking on radio regarding the Jamaica Eye Surveillance Security System.
“Feedback received and advice is given as we meet with residents to hold sensitization sessions with community groups”
Funding is from government, Grant stated”
“The government has allocated from the annual budget in the amount of Ja$1.2 billion which is used to partly fund Jamaica Eye. Part proceeds are used to fund equipment in the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF).
Over 300 partners to date
“The system started with 180 camera feeds and is now 600 cameras island wide, a three (3) hundred percent increase in participation, and we plan to expand to a further 120 this year.
Our partners are free to leave the Jamaica Eye System whenever they wish.”
Concluded Director Grant.
Commentary
Jamaica Eye can be a game changer as it relates to the detection and deterring of crime. We all need to have confidence in the system. It is the way of the future. We will never be able to train and retain our forces. This system cannot be bribed. Or influenced in anyway. As long as the operators have integrity, the system will be effective. Enough said.
Hopeton O’Connor-Dennie is a veteran journalist who has an international exposure
