(Jamaica Gleaner) The Ministry of National Security says more personnel are being trained to increase staff at the country’s Forensic Laboratory in Kingston.
The declaration follows a report in the print media on Wednesday, in which Head of the Independent Commission of Investigations, INDECOM, Terrence Williams claimed that 95 per cent of incomplete shooting-related cases were awaiting the results of forensic testing.
He also recommended that the necessary steps be taken to improve the operations of the Government Forensic Lab or for the commission to be allocated funds, to engage private laboratories to help clear the backlog.
However, Acting Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of National Security, Dianne McIntosh, said the work of the Lab is not being hampered by a lack of equipment at this time.
She said since 2007, the Forensic Lab has purchased several pieces of equipment with the aim of expanding its analytical capabilities and modernising the facility.
She added that these purchases have transformed the lab into the most modern forensics laboratory in the Caribbean.
However, the Permanent Secretary said while the lab has been transformed a shortage of personnel has been creating a challenge, as specialists are often lost to other companies and agencies.
However, she said additional personnel are now being trained to fill vacant positions.
