BASSETERRE – The new Commissioner of Police, Ian Queeley, is heading into his first week on the job with confidence.
Commissioner Queeley, a veteran in law enforcement is confident that his 32 years of service in the Royal St Christopher and Nevis Police Force (RSCNPF), his extensive training and leadership experience have prepared him to successfully lead the rank and file of the RSCNPF.
During a meeting on Wednesday with police officers at NEMA Headquarters in Lime Kiln, Commissioner Queeley reflected on his career path, which includes two separate three-year stints at the Regional Security System (RSS), and cited some of the professional traits he developed.
“I intend to lead from the front. I intend to be visible and transparent in all my undertakings he stated.
“… I go to work every day at an institution that has as a primary mission to enhance the safety and protect the trust of the citizens of St Kitts and Nevis. And I am part of a national organisation that is making the dream of a more effective and successful police force a reality and truly that is paramount in my mission to ensure that this police force becomes a more effective and successful police force.”
Queeley said empowerment opportunities will be made available to increase the morale of the rank and file and to ensure the law enforcement agency functions efficiently. He added that several positive reforms are coming.
“If the person who’s under me knows my work, [then] half of my work is done so we will empower you to do your work,” he said, sharing a personal philosophy. He explained that this will allow processes to flow more smoothly and result in greater productivity.
This will also aid succession planning as a number of positions in the organisation have been made available due to retirements and promotions.
With higher demands being placed on law enforcement, the commissioner of police said each member will be held to the highest standards.
“It is not and will not be business as usual,” Queeley said. “All will be held accountable for their actions. Disciplinary infractions will be dealt with swiftly. … Changes will be made. Some will be more immediate than others but they are intended to allow us to perform at our optimum.”
Queeley assured the officers that he will remain informed about issues that affect persons on the frontlines. (SKNIS)
