The Integrity Commission: Fortifying Against Corruption on International Anti-Corruption Day As the world unites to observe International Anti-Corruption Day, Jamaica stands at the forefront of the battle against corruption with its robust Integrity Commission. This article sheds light on the inner workings of the Commission, exploring its organizational structure, current initiatives, and plans for future expansion. Overview Executive Direction & Administration This Division of the Commission provides institutional governance operational capacity and Board support for the Integrity Commission. It is concerned with policy formulation, initiation, review and evaluation and provides centralized services such as personnel management, financial management, legal services, communications, internal audit, data protection, information technology, and other administrative services necessary to support the Commission’s operations. Promotion of Integrity in the Public Service The Commission’s 4 Statuory Dvisions administers the core functions of the Integrity Commission, including the following : 1. Guide, support and educate the public, procuring entities and private sector providers as it relates to integrity, anticorruption, procurement, efficiency and value for money; 2. Declaration monitoring which involves engaging, collecting, reviewing, analyzing and investigating particulars of statutory declarations submissions; 3. Increasing contract monitoring, investigation, effectiveness and operational efficiencies by forging strategic partnerships and employing technology to analyze data captured and, 4. The Prosecution of corruption offences. The organization carries out its functions through nine divisions: 1. Executive Office 2. Corporate Services 3. Internal Audit 4. Finance & Accounts 5. Information Technology & Business Processes 6. Corruption Prevention 7. Information & Complaints 8. Investigations 9. Corruption Prosecution Spotlight on the Information Technology and Business Processes Division (ITBP): In the digital age, the fight against corruption extends into the realm of technology, and the Integrity Commission recognizes the pivotal role played by the ITBP. This Division serves as the backbone of the Commission’s operations, leveraging cutting-edge technology to streamline processes, data analysis and ensure the secure management of sensitive information. The ITBP is headed by a Director who reports directly to the Executive Director. The Director is supported by a team of eight; A Manager - Systems and Network Administration, a Network & Security Officer, a User Support officer, two Application Web Developers/Programmers, An Application Web Developer/Programmer, A Senior System Administrator, A System Analyst, and A System Administrator The ITBP’s responsibilities extend beyond routine operations; it plays a crucial role in supporting the work of the Divisions in their investigative efforts. This fusion of technology and anti-corruption efforts positions the Integrity Commission as a modern and effective guardian of integrity. The Division also played a crucial role in assisting the Information and Complaints Division with the implementation of the Electronic Declaration System (eDS) which will make it easier for the submission of statutory declarations, and to facilitate a more efficient and effective means of examining these declarations. As Jamaica commemorates International Anti-Corruption Day, the Integrity Commission stands as a testament to the nation’s dedication to eradicating corruption. With plans for staff expansion, a technologically adept Information Systems and Business Processes Division, and a comprehensive strategic business plan, the Commission exemplifies a modern and proactive approach to preserving the integrity of public institutions. In the face of evolving challenges, Jamaica’s Integrity Commission remains resolute in its mission to uphold transparency, foster accountability, and create a society free from the shackles of corruption. The Integrity Commission is a Commission of Parliament, which is governed under the Integrity Commission Act, 2017 and is tasked with carrying out its functions, as mandated under Section 6 of said Act. Some of the functions of the Commission outlined under the Act, include, inter alia, to: • Investigate alleged or suspected acts of corruption and instances of non-compliance with the provisions of the Act; • Prosecute acts of corruption and offences committed under the Act; • Receive complaints in relation to alleged or suspected acts of corruption and instances of non-compliance with the provisions of the Act; and • Monitor and where necessary, investigate the award, implementation and termination of government contracts, including any prescribed licence issued by a public body • Combat corruption through the development, implementation and enforcement of anti-corruption legislation, policy and initiatives, through our highly competent staff and efficient systems, processes and procedures. Structure of the Commission The Integrity Commission operates as a beacon of transparency and accountability. At its core are dedicated professionals committed to upholding the principles of integrity and eradicating corruption from the public sector. Presently, the commission boasts an impressive team of 134 employees, each contributing their expertise to the noble cause. In response to the ever-evolving landscape of corruption, the Commission is strategically planning to increase its sta complement. This expansion aims to enhance the Commission’s capabilities, allowing it to tackle emerging challenges with increased agility and eiciency. By investing in human resources, Jamaica demonstrates its unwavering commitment to combating corruption at every level. The general structure of the Commission comprises two sections: 1. Executive Direction & Administration 2. Promotion of Integrity in the Public Service Vision Realizing and sustaining a corrupt free Jamaica. Mission To achieve a corrupt-free society by preventing, detecting, investigating and prosecuting acts of corruption through high performance culture and eicient systems. Commission’s Objective: To enable an increasingly orderly and corrupt-free society through engagement, education and enforcement.
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