KINGSTON, Jamaica — Minister of National Security, Dr Horace Chang said that his ministry will be upgrading police stations in order to improve working conditions for members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) and “create an environment that is more conducive to confidential reporting”.

He made the statement during the passing out parade for 195 new constables at the National Police College of Jamaica, Harman Barracks in Kingston yesterday.

“We have identified police stations that will be refurbished into centres of excellence,” he said.

While congratulating the new members of the police force, Chang said that the country is depending on them to enforce the laws, protect civil liberties and become part of the fabric of peace and safety.

“As you serve and protect, I encourage you to apply yourselves to this career and play your part in advancing the welfare and development of Jamaica and in all of this be true to yourselves. I am very pleased with the quality of the young men who are here joining the force,” he said. ,p> Chang urged the officers given charge over the new constables to be examples of integrity and courage and play their part in passing on sound, noble values of service and leadership.

The National Security Minister informed that the JCF intends to recruit and train over 1, 000 new police personnel this year as part of efforts to increase the numbers engaged in the field.

“In addition, we will be looking at advanced and specialised training for enlisted officers. This will be pursued to increase the human resource capacity of our officers,” he said.