Basseterre, St. Kitts, (SKNIS): Twenty-nine security personnel are currently learning various police subjects as part of the Island Constable Course 1 of 2014. The group, studying at the Police Training Complex, received a special guest on Thursday (April 3).
Prime Minister the Right Honourable Dr. Denzil Douglas stopped by the training school to meet the men and women drawn from a diverse background, who may be called upon to render assistance to the police and enforce the laws of the land where necessary.
“You have come together to advance the security of your country,” the Prime Minister stressed. “I want to commend you for coming forward in this very significant way … not only in the service of your organization but also in service of your country.”
The course participants represent several agencies including the Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine (RUSVM) security, Urban Development Corporation (UDC) security, St. Christopher Air and Seaports Authority (SCASPA) security division and Tourist Patrol Officers. A representative from each agency met privately with the Prime Minister to share their thoughts on the training.
Sergeant Vanessa Parris at SCASPA said “being here on this training has given me a wider knowledge of the police act and the laws which we are governed by daily.” Security Officer Ruddell Williams agreed that it was a lot of information to take in but he credited the instructors for making the learning easier. Trainee Vanessa Lewis thanked her family and friends for believing in her and pushing her to fulfill the potential she commonly exhibits.
Some of the subjects being covered include the police act, how to give evidence in court, powers of arrest, the malicious damage act and weapons training. The group told the Prime Minister that when the course is completed next Friday (April 11) they are confident that they will be ready for any challenges.
“I used to work up there in Miami at Port Everglades and also Port of Miami as a graduate security officer,” explained Greg Benjamin. “That doesn’t mean that this is easy because this material that I’m learning in this class is far different from just being a security officer. I’m very thankful that this Federation gave me the opportunity.”
“The police can look to me to assist them anytime, day or night. Just call me and I will make myself available,” Sergeant Parris emphasized.
Prime Minister Douglas, who has responsibility for Police and Defence Force, commended the staff at the Police Training Complex led by Superintendent Lionel Moore for the role they play in enhancing the security infrastructure.
“That is what the police are attempting to do,” he stressed. “To bring you up to a level and a standard that when you go out to [execute] your duties you will do it with some professionalism having being trained at the highest level, by the very best.
The Island Constable initiative was launched in St. Kitts and Nevis in August 2011. There have been four similar trainings prior to this class.
-30-