Security Administrators Limited (SAL), the main provider of security at the port of Kingston has officially launched its subsidiary security company, SAL Securities Services (SSL), with its main objective to provide industrial security support nationally and regionally.

SSL was established in February 2008 to meet the security needs of the islands main seaport, but is now looking to expand its services across the island and the Caribbean. Captain John Ulett, managing director of SAL, said SSL was created in response to the Shipping Association of Jamaica's (SAJ) thrust to establish Newport West as an industrial park, coupled with the awareness of the security needs of customers outside of maritime security.

"We thought it was a good opportunity for business expansion as well as to facilitate the desires of our customers," Captain Ulett said of SSL's establishment.

Built on the knowledge

Speaking at the launch of SSL last Thursday at their 4th Avenue offices, chairman of SAL, Grantley Stephenson, noted that SAL had built on the knowledge and capabilities acquired over the last 22 years by responding to the needs not only of port security, but security needs of businesses outside of the port community.

"SAL has come a long way and this is just another phase of development. The expansion of the services offered by SAL will be integral in creating an industrial park for the Newport West community," Stephenson said, adding that he was looking forward to SSL's expansion in Jamaica and the wider Caribbean.

President of the SAJ, Roger Hinds concurred with Stephenson, noting that the new security initiative by SAL through SSL represents an important step in the development of Newport West as an industrial park.

"I must commend, Grantley Stephenson, Captain Ulett and their innovative team, for raising the bar where security is concerned, to ensure the safety and security of business operators, employees and customers of Newport West," Hinds said.

SSL has been providing security services at Kingston Wharves Limited and commenced its first contract outside of that facility last week. SSL is a wholly owned subsidiary of SAL providing industrial security services, building on over 20 years experience and expertise of its parent company which is known for specialised maritime security.

SSL's office was opened by Chairman Grantley Stephenson; managing director, Captain John Ulett, and Bishop Herro Blair, who offered blessings.