In a bid to enhance public access to legal resources, the Jamaican government has awarded a substantial contract worth US$197,000 to European firm, Softengi, to develop the Jamaica Legal Information Portal (JLIP).
Empowering public access and legal education
The JLIP aims to revolutionize how Jamaican citizens interact with legal information.
By offering an extensive array of resources, the portal seeks to educate the public on various legal facets while providing a platform for individuals to engage with and seek clarification on existing laws.
Cutting-edge features and enhanced accessibility
One of the hallmark features of the portal will be its advanced search capabilities, enabling users to navigate through Jamaica’s legal landscape with ease.
Additionally, the JLIP will prioritize expanding the availability of laws in diverse formats, with a special emphasis on simplifying access to the Jamaica Gazette publications.
Moreover, the platform will curate content highlighting significant judicial and legislative developments.
Minister Marlene Malahoo Forte unveils project details
During a recent meeting of the Standing Finance Committee of the House of Representatives, Minister of Legal and Constitutional Affairs, Hon. Marlene Malahoo Forte, unveiled key details about the project.
Malahoo Forte noted that Softengi is ranked in the top 100 global information technology outsourcing service providers by the International Association of Outsourcing Professionals.
Timeline and budgeting
Work on the portal officially commenced on February 19, 2024, with an anticipated completion date set for February 2025.
Minister Malahoo Forte emphasized the necessity of establishing a proficient project team to oversee the seamless implementation of the system.
She shared that the proposed team structure includes four officers whose services would be contracted for two years; the team would comprise a Project Manager, an ICT Specialist, a Content Production Officer, and a Records Officer.
The estimated project cost stands at approximately $30 million, with a portion allocated towards procuring ICT equipment in the upcoming fiscal year.
The funding for this endeavor stems from the World Bank’s Foundations for Competitiveness and Growth Project (FCGP).
