KINGSTON, Jamaica (JIS) — Security arrangements at the Riverton disposal site are to be improved through the addition of electronic surveillance mechanisms, which will help to prevent unauthorised access to the facility.

This is among four priority areas identified for immediate action to strengthen the management of the site.

Governor-general Sir Patrick Allen, who made the announcement while delivering the Throne Speech at the Ceremonial Opening of Parliament at Gordon House today, said the new security arrangements are in addition to the existing system of patrols.

He said other areas for immediate action are: the completion of ongoing consultations with the National Environment and Planning Agency (NEPA); and satisfaction of compliance requirements in order to obtain and maintain environmental certification for the operation of Riverton, as well as the other disposal sites managed by the National Solid Waste Management Authority (NSWMA).

The NSWMA’s service delivery will also be enhanced with special emphasis on waste collection and disposal.

There will also be improvement in the speed at which contemporary financial controls are implemented, to ensure accountability, efficiency and compliance with all standards of financial reporting and the requirements of all statutes governing the Authority.

The governor-general noted that these interventions will also serve “to address some of the major concerns raised in the recent investigative report by the Public Defender”.

In the meantime, the Governor-General informed that $250 million has been provided in the budget to purchase additional waste disposal trucks. He further stressed that all Jamaicans “must take personal responsibility for the management of our waste”.

“The Government must partner with citizens to build a culture of cleanliness and responsible waste disposal,” the governor-general added.

The Throne Speech was delivered under the theme: ‘Building a Partnership for Prosperity’.