The chairman and members of the National Identification and Registration Authority (NIRA) have welcomed the pending implementation of the national identification card (NIC) system which, they say, is a critical step in Jamaica’s continued development.

In a release, the NIRA board members said developing the underlying framework for the new national ID system results from extensive planning and wide-ranging consultations, reflecting the Government’s commitment to modernising governance and enhancing business operations.

The nine-member NIRA board, announced in March, is chaired by Bishop Conrad Pitkin, Custos Rotulorum for the parish of St James, who has reiterated his commitment to the NIC.

“The National Identification and Registration Authority is fully dedicated to ensuring the successful implementation of the national identification card system. This system is pivotal in advancing Jamaica towards a more transparent and efficient governance framework,” said Bishop Pitkin.

“We have extensively consulted with all relevant groups, ranging from civil society and churches to the private sector. We have made every effort to incorporate their views into the supporting legislation. We are also heartened to see the private sector welcome our efforts to implement the NIC. The NIRA board is resolute in overseeing this transition, ensuring that the benefits of the NIC system are fully realised for all Jamaicans,” he added.

Bishop Pitkin pointed out that the NIC system represents a vital component of Jamaica’s commitment to creating a fully inclusive digital society, enabling all Jamaicans to engage transparently and efficiently in various sectors, including banking and finance, commerce and trade, pensions, health, and travel.

The NIC system will be managed by NIRA, which will eventually assume administration of the civil registration system in Jamaica, replacing the Registrar General’s Department (RGD) and providing enhanced services.

“I salute the members of NIRA, the NIDS technical team, the Office of the Parliamentary Counsel, the Attorney-General’s Chambers, Tax Administration Jamaica, and all other collaborators, for their work to make the NIC possible.

“I can confidently say that no stone was left unturned in this process. It is an honour to work alongside a group of professionals so dedicated to helping Jamaica realise the next step in the national development journey,” said Senator Dr Dana Morris Dixon, who piloted and received approval for five NIDS regulations in the Senate last Friday.

“There is a practical reason why every developed country has a national ID system; it creates transparency and facilitates good governance and ease of doing business. I implore all Jamaicans to support this initiative and reap the full benefits of the NIC,” added Morris Dixon.