Prime Minister Andrew Holness on Friday announced that people who have never been issued a birth certificate will now be able to receive one for free, under the government’s newly launched ‘Operation Birthright’ project. 

This project makes way for the National Identification System (NIDS) to take effect, as Prime Minister  Holness stresses that details about people’s birth is pertinent to receive a National Identification System card. 

The Prime Minister says the New Identification System will not only be convenient, but it will also allow the government to act swifter when assisting Jamaicans.

He notes that the lack of a standardized system prevented that efficiency, especially during the covid-19 pandemic. 

He says he is looking forward to a Jamaica where all people are documented. He also notes the Identification card will be a multi-functional card,  thus eliminating the need to walk with several forms of identification. 

He reassures Jamaicans that as the country transitions into a digital society, much will be done to ensure some aren’t left behind. 

He says NIDS registration will begin in a few months. More details here:

Reporter: Velonique Bowen