Edmond Campbell, News Coordinator

Extortionists and kidnappers are to face stiffer penalties, as the Government prepares to draft special legislation to deal with these crimes, according to the long-awaited National Security Policy for Jamaica.

Another component of the policy will see Parliament taking the lead in piloting reforms geared toward severing 'unwholesome' ties between politicians and criminals or community leaders of questionable character.

The document, which was tabled yesterday in the House of representatives by National Security Minister Dr. Peter Phillips, integrates the country's major security policies, goals and actions into an overall master strategy to address the nation's security concerns.

A well-coordinated, efficient and effective intelligence system, with adequate resources and strategic oversight forms part of the policy proposals.

The objective of this approach is to improve the quality of the criminal intelligence product that is central to the dismantling of organised criminal gangs.

As part of the overall policy, the Government said it would strengthen policies and practices, including sanctions, to promote transparency in government and society, such as the awarding of contracts, where processes may be unduly influenced.

A specific action to achieve this objective, according to the National Security Policy, is a review of the Office of the Contractor General and the National Contracts Commission within six months, to improve their efficiency and enhance the guidelines for the procurement of contracts.

And, the Ministry of Health will also expedite action on a national identification system, incorporating biometrics, that could be assigned at birth and be a requirement for all official activities, including schooling, employment and conducting business.

edmond.campbell@gleanerjm.com