New directives issued to police on prosecuting cell phone use while driving

The Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) has issued new directives to its members regarding the prosecution of the offence of using an electronic device, including mobile phones, while driving.

A statement from the Office of the Prime Minister (OPM) indicated that the directives clarify that the device must be observed in the hands of the motorist.

Motorists have complained about being ticketed for having their cell phones on their laps or on their seats while driving.

OPM says the change was as an immediate action coming out of a meeting of the National Security Council, which is chaired by Prime Minister Andrew Holness, following a presentation from the Ministry of Science, Energy, Telecommunications and Transport on the emerging issues with implementation and enforcement of the current Road Traffic Act and Regulations and proposed amendments to the law to ensure practical enforcement and safety of the public.

It says among those issues deliberated and where amendments are proposed and are already in progress are: the provisions concerning the use of communication devices while driving; exemption of drivers of public passenger vehicles from requirement to have the prescribed child restraint system; renewal of driver's licence for persons 70 years and over; reduction of demerit points for some offences and; designation of school safety zones.

OPM notes that considerations are being made to temporarily suspend the enforcement of some offences and the removal of certain offences from the Traffic Ticket Management System until full support systems are in place.

It did not indicate the offences that are under contemplation.

But, it stated that final deliberation of these amendments will be undertaken by an Operationalisation Committee which will be established to steer development of the implementation plan, and the completed list of amendments is expected to be brought to Parliament within the next two months.

The OPM says Holness noted the concerns expressed by the public related to these issues and emphasised that the foremost priority of the Government remains the assurance of security and safety of Jamaicans.

He further expressed that the laws are developed to complement these efforts in a practical and meaningful way.

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