The Tenth anniversary of the Ports Security Corps, arguably one of the most sensitive areas of our national defence, is indeed an occasion to celebrate. Since its inception in 1989, the Ports Security Corps has worked to reduce the flow of illegal drug activity on the island’s major ports and restrict the importation of guns and contraband into the country.
This has by no means been an easy road given the limited manpower and equipment and has been, all things considered, successful based on the sheer will and determination of a well organized team. Even today, many of our sons and daughters employed to this noble agency continue to put their lives and reputations on the line in order to make this country a safer place. It is also important to note that the tourism sector, the lifeblood of the economy, owes this organization a great debt of gratitude. Tourist harassment, once considered the leading ill facing the country has been strongly curtailed in the resort areas. For years, this scourge was threatening to destroy the sector, but the through the efforts of the brave men and women of the resorts corps, tourists are once again more free to walk the streets of the resort towns.
This has not gone unnoticed by cruise line officials and foreign tour operators who have in recent times lauded the effort s of the patrol men, while trying to send more of their passengers out to enjoy the Jamaican experience.
On behalf of the St Ann Chamber of Commerce and the people of the Garden Parish, I take great pleasure in saluting the Ports Security Corps and wishing you further success as we move towards the start of new millennium.
Joseph Issa
President
Source: The Gleaner
