Basseterre, St. Kitts, October 22, 2015 (SKNIS): Prime Minister and Minister of National Security, Dr. the Honourable Timothy Harris, has expressed thanks and appreciation to Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) for their significant contributions towards crime fighting.
Dr. Harris noted that plans are already in place to address this matter.
“I want to acknowledge with thanks the important contributions of the NGO Coalition and others in providing resources to assist our police,” said Prime Minister Harris, adding that he looks forward to meeting with the group before the year ends to discuss, among other things, a strategic approach for resource mobilization and use.
Prime Minister Harris paid homage to the officers who go above and beyond duty.
“Our men and women in uniform are doing a difficult job,” he said. “Several of them every day put their lives on the line to protect and serve us. They need to be assured that they have the public’s support and trust, as they maintain law and order.
“I thank those who have been spearheading the efforts at implementing the Six Point Plan,” said Dr. Harris. “All officers should be devoting themselves full time in upholding the law, not breaking it and they must feel the presence of the high command at all times. The excellence and hard work of our best officers will not be ignored and indeed in due course they shall be rewarded. Equally, action will be taken to deal with non-performers.”
Dr. Harris said that the Government “intends to examine in detail, with a view to enhancing in a significant way, parenting programs and the systems that are in place to reduce truancy.”
He said it is important that the value of respect and the value of life be instilled in the youth, at a very tender age, and noted that the Government is open to views and suggestions on how they can have a fresh start in taking back the country from criminals, as well as restoring law and order to St. Kitts and Nevis.
“Our actions to date free the criminal justice system of uncertainty and mediocre performance, our respect for law and non-interference in due process are a fresh start to law and order,” said the National Security Minister, adding that everyone is subjected to the law, be they civilians and, or police officers. The law, he said, will be maintained, for the citizens and residents alike are a society in obedience to laws rather than men.