THE Returning Residents Task Force, formed in early July, had its first official working meeting on Tuesday, July 31 with safety and security and an examination of the draft Safety and Security Handbook — produced by the Jamaica Constabulary Force — high on the agenda.

The handbook is expected to increase and improve sharing of accurate information between Jamaica and its diaspora, particularly those who have permanently returned, with the goal of significantly reducing challenges faced in the resettlement process.

According to Pearnel Charles Jr, state minister in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade and taskforce head, “These measures aimed at ensuring a smoother and safer transition for returning residents, will address a range of concerns, including national security, banking and customs. The safety handbook, which features safety precautions, will go a far way in achieving our objectives of building confidence and increasing communication with the Diaspora”.

Following the examination of the handbook and recommendations made by the task force, Senator Charles directed the members to ensure feedback from returning residents associations and stakeholders in the Diaspora is received within a month. He also enlisted the assistance of the Diaspora Advisory Board members and missions in the dissemination of the draft handbook for feedback.

“The handbook, whether soft or hard copy, should be easily accessible at all points of interaction between returning residents and government ministries, departments and agencies,” said Charles.

Other issues discussed at the July 31 meeting included challenges faced by returning residents in transacting business, challenges at the municipal and community levels, in addition to mechanisms to engage second- and third-generation Jamaicans in the Diaspora.

Wayne Golding Sr, Diaspora Advisory Board member for Southern USA, joined key personnel from the returning resident associations, Jamaica Customs Agency , the Ministry of National Security and representatives from the Ministry for the inaugural Returning Residents Task Force meeting.