GOVERNMENT is taking steps to improve security at the island’s major ports by installing closed circuit television systems at the Kingston Transshipment Port and the Port of Montego Bay, in the face of rising crime linked to the international narcotics trade.

The Port Authority of Jamaica (PAJ) has invited tenders for the supply of security video surveillance equipment. A recent newspaper advertisement by the Authority requires “pre-qualification documents” to be deposited no later than February 15, 2002.

The decision to install a technology-based security system on the ports is motivated by the need to protect the island’s valuable transshipment business from contamination by the illicit narcotics trade as well as to modernise the operations of the ports.

“Closed circuit television system is a standard procedure at ports all over the world and will provide safety benefits in addition to security,” explained Major Dave Anderson, assistant vice president for security at the PAJ.

Noel Hylton, president of the PAJ, told journalists during a recent tour of the Kingston Transshipment Port that the facility was now equipped with computer and satellite-operated cranes and operated on a 24-hour basis all year round.

“Closed circuit cameras will assist all facets of security — area control, cargo theft, drug detection and disaster management including chemical spill and fire,” Anderson told the Observer at the time. He added that a closed circuit television system was already installed at Kingston Wharves.

The upgrading of security at the ports was one of the steps mooted by Peter Phillips, the new national security minister, in his fight to combat crime.

Phillips is expected to list other crime-fighting measures in a national radio and television broadcast tomorrow night.