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Jamaica Observer
Posted: 3/4/2009 9:04:51 AM
JUSTICE minister Dorothy Lightbourne remained resolute that police officials would not be employed to the Independent Commission of Investigations, as the joint-select committee deliberating the Bill concluded discussions yesterday.
During the sitting which saw long periods expended to hammer out details to be included in the Act, Lightbourne said employing police officials would be against the views of the public, who have no faith in the police’s ability to investigate itself.
She remained adamant, but committee members wanted to know who would conduct ballistic tests on behalf of the commission, where they are required, against the background that there were independent ballistic facilities in Jamaica.
“It is not intended for the police to investigate the police, and I have said it over and over in this committee. No, no…” she said.
Members also wanted to know who would carry out investigations.
Assistant Commissioner of Police Justice Felice, who explained the equivalent in Northern Ireland, said some police officials were used, as a strong background in investigations was required. Police official numbers were reduced after a while for complete independence.
Member K D Knight, as well as Mark Golding said there was nothing in the bill that precluded the employment of police officials, although Lightbourne insisted they would not be employed.
In the end it was agreed that only police personnel who left the force more than seven years could be considered for employment.
Posted: 3/4/2009 9:04:51 AM
JUSTICE minister Dorothy Lightbourne remained resolute that police officials would not be employed to the Independent Commission of Investigations, as the joint-select committee deliberating the Bill concluded discussions yesterday.
During the sitting which saw long periods expended to hammer out details to be included in the Act, Lightbourne said employing police officials would be against the views of the public, who have no faith in the police’s ability to investigate itself.
She remained adamant, but committee members wanted to know who would conduct ballistic tests on behalf of the commission, where they are required, against the background that there were independent ballistic facilities in Jamaica.
“It is not intended for the police to investigate the police, and I have said it over and over in this committee. No, no…” she said.
Members also wanted to know who would carry out investigations.
Assistant Commissioner of Police Justice Felice, who explained the equivalent in Northern Ireland, said some police officials were used, as a strong background in investigations was required. Police official numbers were reduced after a while for complete independence.
Member K D Knight, as well as Mark Golding said there was nothing in the bill that precluded the employment of police officials, although Lightbourne insisted they would not be employed.
In the end it was agreed that only police personnel who left the force more than seven years could be considered for employment.
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