I am a Jamaican living in Canada. In September of 2008, I applied for my police record. I got direction how to do this from the Jamaican Consulate, the Canadian Embassy and the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) websites. Each informed foreign nationals to send applications to East Queen Street, Kingston. The Jamaican consulate also advised that CDN$86 would provide express service. However, I later found this information was outdated and incorrect. This proved frustrating and inconvenient, as I needed my records urgently.

After constantly calling the Criminal Records Department, which is situated on Duke Street, Kingston, without any positive results, I decided to submit another application. It was then I was given the correct procedure and cost to apply for the police record. Since going through this ordeal, I found I was not the only foreign national who has been experiencing frustration and inconvenience.

Slow express

Recently, I was informed that my first application was just received in late January by the Duke Street branch. That's some express service! I appeal to the JCF to update its website and inform the Jamaican Consulate and Canadian Embassy of the correct information. It is time we do things professionally.

The only good experience I had was speaking to the lady who handles such request at the Criminal Records Department, Duke Street. She was very pleasant and polite and made my ordeal somewhat tolerable. Thanks Miss M.

Still a proud and hopeful Jamaican.

I am, etc.,

DEBBIE IRVING

debbie_irving2000@yahoo.com

Ontario, Canada