ST ANN, Jamaica —The Special Constabulary Force Association is frowning at the idea of the Island Special Constabulary Force (ISCF) and the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) being merged and has instead called for increased capacity in the ISCF.
Inspector Andrew Johnson, chairman of the association has called on the Minister of National Security Peter Bunting to add more members to the ISCF.“We are asking you to consider improving the compliment of the ISCF to at least 4000,” he said.Johnson, who was speaking at the 29th annual joint conference of the Special Constabulary Force Association at the Jewel Resort in Runaway Bay, said that the ISCF has been operating successfully and what it needs is increased physical and human resources to continue its success.“Put the ISCF back where we were in 2002/2003 (but not just to put us back there), but to give us resources, renew the energy of the ISCF, build the capacity of the organisation and watch us as we take on crime in a way that you would be amazed,” Inspector Johnson requested of Minister Bunting. Johnson pointed out that the ISCF has taken on the mandate given and has been serving effectively. “The energy and vigour with which we approach our duties, the motivation and leadership provided by our managers, the singleness of purpose displayed by all stakeholders resulted in the restoration of order in public spaces, namely all the major town centres across the island and especially downtown Kingston,” he said.The ISCF has a little over 2000 members, Johnson said adding that with their hard work, people however are often led to believe that its membership is bigger. “Visibility of the police in any locality is a significant deterrent to crime and acts of criminality. It is the perception that the ISCF is always present on the street,” he said.He went on to add that the ISCF “is poised to make an even more significant contribution to the fight against crime in this country.”He however made it clear that the prospect of a merger “has dampened our spirits. We however remain committed to our task of assisting with the security of our nation.”“Look at the work done; think about a reenergized ISCF and how much we can achieve. All we need is your support in the form of administrative directives and support in physical and human resources and you would never believe the dent that we could make in bringing crime even further down,” he said.Bunting in response said that although no immediate talks are ongoing, whatever happens he would ensure that the members of the ISCF are protected if a merger is to take place.- Renae DixonHOUSE RULES
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ISCF says no to merger, calls for increased capacity
