JIS Reports on Key Initiatives and Legislative Changes
Kingston, Jamaica – June 12, 2025 – The Jamaica Information Service (JIS) today released a report detailing significant developments across various sectors, encompassing infrastructure improvements, legislative updates, and enhancements to public services. The announcements, made by several key figures, reflect the government’s ongoing commitment to modernization and improved citizen services. The JIS report, disseminated across multiple media platforms including YouTube, provided a comprehensive overview of these initiatives.
Road Naming and Addressing Program Unveiled
One of the most prominent announcements came from Prime Minister Dr. Andrew Holness, who unveiled plans for a nationwide program aimed at standardizing road names and addresses. This initiative is designed to create a unified and easily navigable addressing system across the island, streamlining various services and improving emergency response capabilities. The program is a direct result of a preceding project that meticulously documented over 27,000 kilometers of Jamaican roads, providing the foundation for the new addressing framework. This detailed documentation will be crucial to the program’s successful implementation and ensures accurate data for the new system.
Legislative Framework Strengthened
The JIS report also highlighted substantial updates to several key pieces of legislation designed to strengthen the legal framework and protect critical national infrastructure. These updates demonstrate a commitment to adapting laws to meet current challenges. The Telecommunications Act received significant revisions, with a primary focus on addressing and deterring interference with telecommunications infrastructure. The government has increased penalties for violations of the Act, reflecting the seriousness of such offenses. Fines for tampering with telecommunications infrastructure have been raised substantially, and now carry the potential for imprisonment, signaling a firmer stance against such activities.
Furthermore, the Emergency Lighting Control Act has been updated, introducing stiffer penalties for non-compliance. This measure aims to enhance public safety by ensuring the proper functioning of emergency lighting systems across the island. Non-compliance with the Emergency Lighting Control Act will result in increased fines and the possibility of imprisonment. Similarly, the National Commission on Science and Technology Act has undergone revision. The amendments to this Act are intended to bolster the commission’s effectiveness in promoting scientific advancement and technological development within the nation, and non-compliance will now also have increased fines and potential imprisonment attached to it.
Enhancements to Public Transportation
In a separate development, the Jamaica Urban Transit Company (JUTC) announced a significant upgrade to its fleet, designed to improve public transportation services across the country. The Spanish Town depot is slated to receive a substantial influx of new buses, with a total of 70 vehicles scheduled for deployment. This infusion of new buses will enhance service frequency and reliability for commuters in the area. As part of this fleet expansion, the JUTC is expecting the arrival of 30 new coach buses, specifically designed to provide a higher standard of comfort and service for passengers. This addition promises to improve the overall commuter experience, reflecting the government’s ongoing commitment to modernizing public transportation.
Government’s Commitment to Progress
The announcements made by the JIS on June 12, 2025, underscore the Jamaican government’s commitment to creating a more modern, efficient, and secure nation. The initiatives, spanning infrastructure, legislation, and public services, demonstrate a comprehensive approach to national development. The implementation of these measures is expected to have a positive impact on the lives of all Jamaicans, supporting economic growth and improving the quality of life across the island.