New police commissioner by March - PSC opens 10-day window for applications

PersonS interested in becoming Jamaica's next commissioner of police have until February 21 to submit their applications to the Police Service Commission (PSC), with the selection expected to be made before the end of next month.

The PSC yesterday set the deadline for applications in a newspaper advertisement in which it was made clear that applicants need not be serving members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force.

The search for a new commissioner became necessary after George Quallo opted to go on retirement leave last month after just nine months in the job.

Yesterday, Sunday Gleaner sources said the recently reconfigured PSC is leaning towards is a new commissioner from outside the Force, with senior members of the Jamaica Defence Force having a huge advantage if they apply.

DONE WITH URGENCY

"As usual, the members of the PSC are not saying anything political but indications are that they want to look outside," said one source, who added that the selection will be done with urgency.

"All parties are aware of the view that the situation is critical, and so the process of selecting the new commissioner will not be as long as it took to appoint Mr Quallo."

The search for a new commissioner has had a slight delay because the life of the PSC expired at the end of last month.

Since then, Gleaner sources have revealed that Professor Gordon Shirley will continue as chairman with Dr Marshall Hall remaining by his side.

University of the West Indies Professor Anthony Harriott, retired Rear Admiral Peter Brady and senior member of the clergy, the Reverend Dr Maitland Evans, have reportedly been added to the team.

There is yet no confirmation on the composition of the team from the Office of the Prime Minister or the Office of the Governor General.