New recruits to the police force were told they have serious responsibilities, but will also benefit from new rights and working conditions. This was the message of welcome, this morning to the 116 recruits who, after 14 weeks of intensive training, have started their careers as constables in the police force.
During this passing out parade, Minister for Home Affairs and National Security Carmelo Abela highlighted the investment in the human resources of this country's corps. He reiterated that work in a disciplined force should be considered a career. With this aim efforts persisted so that members would be provided with more learning opportunities.
In the past two and a half years more than 500 members of the Police, Army and Civil Protection have attended specialised courses overseas, thanks to an investment of around eight hundred thousand euros. Just over half were police officers who received training in diverse areas including Forensic, Economic Crimes, Cybercrime and trafficking of human beings.
Minister Abela said the process was ongoing for ta' Kandja Academy to be accredited by the University of Malta and MCAST. His vision was for the disciplined forces to work together in synergy, giving the best levels of protection for society.
He emphasised his determination to strengthen working conditions. There were new rights of representation. Now work was being carried out on the possibility of introducing an insurance policy for all members of the disciplined forces.
The Minister for Home Affairs said that, in collaboration with Commissioner Michael Cassar, all necessary support would be given to those ready to work for the good of the force.
"Wear your uniform with pride and humility. Your responsibilities do not finish at the end of your shift. From now onwards, in every moment, you are police officers" said Hon. Abela.
During this ceremony, Constable Neil Saliba was named best recruit. Constable Pauline Bonello was recognised as being in first place academically and Constable Shanice Schembri came second.