Isle of Man Looks to Facial Recognition for Port Security

The Isle of Man plans to deploy facial recognition technology to secure its ports, according to a new plan announced by Justice and Home Affairs Minister Jane Poole-Wilson.

The “Securing Our Island Strategy,” published by the Isle of Man’s Department of Home Affairs, outlines a strategy under the umbrella of three “P”s: “Prevent”, by making borders less attractive to criminals through better information sharing and updated legislation; “Protect”, by using technology and a physical law enforcement presence to safeguard ports and vulnerable individuals; and “Pursue“, by targeting and prosecuting criminals, including through collaboration with UK law enforcement.

The strategy points to facial recognition technology as a key component of border security. It outlines plans to introduce a bill to the House of Keys by January 2025 that will enable the use of facial recognition by the police to help identify criminals and terrorists.

The technology will be deployed at the Island’s air and sea ports to enhance law enforcement’s ability to detect and apprehend those attempting to enter the Island with malicious intent. By integrating facial recognition with other technologies like Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR), the Isle of Man plans to modernize its approach to monitoring arrivals and departures.

The overall goal is to make border security more efficient while maintaining a balance between protecting the Island from threats and ensuring legitimate travelers can move freely.

The Isle of Man is a self-governing British Crown Dependency located in the Irish Sea between Great Britain and Ireland. It has its own government, legal system, and customs arrangements, though it relies on the UK for defense and international representation. The island is part of the Common Travel Area (CTA), allowing free movement between the UK, Ireland, and other islands.

Source: Manx Radio

–

September 18, 2024 – by Ali Nassar-Smith