Citizen safety top priority in Trelawny despite sick out

The Trelawny Police Division High Command says it is holding steadfast despite some amount of strain brought on by fewer police personnel showing up for duties as scores of rank-and-file members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force continue an islandwide sick-out.

"I can't dismiss the thought that a few members went out, and it caused a little bit of strain on the other staff that remains," Superintendent Dwight Powell told The Gleaner yesterday.

Powell said that the parish was being managed fairly well despite the shortage of manpower, which is likely to continue until an agreement is arrived at in wage negotiations between the police and the Government.

"I cannot say how many members are out for security reasons, but it is no worse than what is happening across the island," he said.

"I, however, can tell you that we have been managing fairly well, with no major crimes over the Christmas period. We went through the festive season almost crime free."

Powell gave the assurance that the safety and protection of citizens of Trelawny would continue to be priority number one going forward into the New Year. He has also commended those members of the Trelawny police who have remained on duty, saying that they are staying true to their pledge to serve and protect.