Reference is made to the editorial entitled At long last (TMID, 7 September), regarding the comment made that there is only one female police officer above the rank of inspector.

The engagement of female personnel serving in discipline forces in Britain possessions came rather late in history. In Malta, the first female police constables were appointed in 1956 when the Malta Police Force was already in its 142nd year of its existence.

Unfortunately, since that time, it has been the general trend for female police officers to abruptly terminate their policing carrier either upon engaging in marriage or when having children.

Nevertheless, it has always been the force’s policy to acknowledge career-oriented female officers. As a matter of fact, the first female police inspectors and superintendent were appointed in 1991 and 2003 respectively. Presently, there are 13 female inspectors serving in the force.

This year, two female inspectors are also due to be promoted to superintendent’s level.

This proves that the rungs of the promotion ladder are also available to able and performing female officers in the force.

PC Chris Mangion

f/Commissioner of Police

Floriana