Opposition parliamentarian Fitz Jackson has pointed out that public safety and accountability go hand in hand.

In his contribution to the sectoral debate in the lower house today Jackson noted that citizens’ trust in the police is needed in the quest to reduce crime and violence.

His comments come in the wake of a protest today by human rights lobby group Jamaicans For Justice (JFJ) to call for greater accountability amidst an increase in fatal shootings.

The JFJ protesters were dressed in black clothing, while persons in a counter protest, to support the police, wore blue clothing.

Mr. Jackson, who wore black clothing today, pledged that the next Peoples National Party government will accelerate the use of body worn cameras by police officers.

He said trust is imperative in achieving sustained safety and security.