Minister of Justice and Member of Parliament for St Andrew North Eastern, Delroy Chuck, is urging residents of Andrews Pen, Castle Heights and environs to familiarise themselves with the internet and its benefits.

Chuck was speaking Thursday in his constituency, during the inauguration of two Community WiFi Hotspots installed by the Universal Service Fund (USF).

During his address, Chuck highlighted the importance of reliable internet connectivity, which he pointed out helps to keep residents informed about job opportunities while staying abreast of the latest developments such as JamDex, the island’s digital currency.

Chuck stated that smartphones will soon become the primary tool for managing finances and conducting business transactions.

“Many of us love to see paper money, but very soon paper money will be out of style. Very shortly, with this technology, we will be able to have money on our smartphones. You won’t need a wallet or any money holder any longer. Instead, your wallet will be on your smartphones … You will be able to pay bills and conduct business transactions with your smartphones. Paper money done!”, Chuck emphasised.

He reassured residents about the security of digital funds in cyberspace, which reduces the risk of losing money to thieves, further highlighting the need for Jamaica to keep up with global technological advancements.

He urged citizens to understand the internet’s significance and functionality by gaining a deeper understanding of how to fully leverage the resources provided by the USF.

“Get used to using the Wifi that has been provided to us free of cost, by the Government because before, you may have had to connect with one of the service providers where you will have to pay for it”.

Meanwhile, Inspector Cheree Greaves of the Jamaica Constabulary Force’s (JCF) Community Safety and Security Branch, who was also in attendance, implored the residents to use the internet to communicate with the police on criminal activities within their spaces while remaining anonymous.

“While you may have a preference of whom you communicate with, there is a way for you to do so and not be known. Use the internet to elevate your community by reporting criminal activities to the police.”

The USF is an agency of the Ministry of Science, Energy and Technology, committed to promoting the widespread availability and use of information and communications technology (ICT) in Jamaica. The USF works with government agencies, private sector organisations, and communities to improve access to ICT and to promote the use of technology to drive economic and social development.