Jamaica advances cyber law, transport fare hike and health records upgrade

Jamaica is advancing a set of public-sector measures covering cybersecurity, transport, hurricane readiness, health care technology and maritime safety, according to updates aired on the June 3, 2026 edition of Jamaica Magazine.

Dr. Andrew Wheatley, minister with responsibility for science, technology and special projects, said a proposal will go to Cabinet for a National Cybersecurity Coordination and Assurance Council. The body is expected to operate for two years, help shape a new Cybersecurity Act, support a uniform cybersecurity portal, complete a legislative gap review and prepare drafting instructions. The planned law is also expected to place a national cybersecurity directorate in statute, protect critical information infrastructure, set minimum standards for regulated sectors and require incident reporting, vulnerability disclosure and regulation of cybersecurity service providers.

Cabinet has also approved a 16 per cent fare adjustment for public passenger vehicle operators. Transport Minister Daryl Vaz said the increase will be introduced in two equal phases, with the first 8 per cent taking effect on June 2 and the second on July 1, to reduce the inflationary shock. The Transport Authority said operators must use only the approved fares and warned that breaches could lead to enforcement action, including suspension or revocation of road licences.

Hurricane-season preparations are also being tightened. The Office of Utilities Regulation has asked major utility providers for annual business-continuity plans and insurance details, while approving a US$106.6-million hurricane insurance framework for the Jamaica Public Service Company through the Caribbean Catastrophe Risk Insurance Facility and Descartes Insurance. Separately, the National Solid Waste Management Authority launched Operation COM in Rocky Point, Clarendon, to clear bulky waste and support public education in 94 flood-prone communities.

In health care, the Ministry of Health is rolling out an electronic health record system under a health-system strengthening project valued at more than US$5 million. May Pen Hospital was the first site to use the platform, with 13 facilities in the initial 18-month phase, including Chapelton, Spanish Town and St. Ann's Bay hospitals and the May Pen West, May Pen East and St. Jago health centres. The system supports registration, triage, appointments, shared clinical records and secure access to patient information.

The programme also highlighted the National Land Agency's hydrographic work, which uses surveys, sonar and nautical charting to improve marine safety, support ports and help manage Jamaica's coastal resources.