Cummings calls for more rigorous screening of recruits to the Police Force

The Royal St.Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force as it presently stands is reflective of years of problems, says Senator Daniel Cummings of the New Democratic Party.{{more}}

Contributing to the May 28, 2010, debate on the Police Amendment Bill 2010, Cummings admitted that the problems are not entirely the making of the Unity Labour Party (ULP) administration.

He identified the recruitment mechanism as one of the sources of the problem.

Cummings in his debate called for more rigorous screening of recruits and made it clear that he was not speaking only of academics, but character.

“It is an institution that I believe that discipline must be at the forefront. If you had a history of deviant behaviour, every effort should be made to ensure that you do not get the opportunity of entering an institution of this kind,” said Cummings.

He shared his experience at a similar organization where they were able to successfully blend technical skills with the requisite level of reporting and administrative capabilities. He stated the same can be done for the Royal St.Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force.

He, however, discussed an issue that he said he believes to be a serious one. This relates to officers after serving for several years in the Royal St.Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force not being able to attain the rank of Sergeant.

Cummings stressed that this is indicative of a very serious problem.

He said, while the Police Amendment Bill would help, he sees it “as merely, band aid on a festering problem.”

He said although the New Democratic Party supports the Police Amendment Act in principle, he believes that “it is more like a window dressing”. He noted that there are other fundamental issues which needs addressing in order for development to take place.