To show their appreciation for the commendable work that has been done by the Minister of Home Affairs, Clement Rohee, over the past three years, the community policing body Wednesday held a parade in his honour.

The parade began at the Square of the Revolution and proceeded to the St Stanislaus School compound where the Minister observed a traditional march past. The gathering comprised members of the various Community Policing Groups (CPGs) across the country.

Minister Rohee, in his address after the parade, commended the body’s turn out, noting that the event was viewed as a way of promoting the activities of and forging partnership between the police and the people. He pointed out that the police could not function without community support as this would lead to inefficiency.

The Ministry of Home Affairs now has a Secretariat on policy issues to support the concept of community policing.

Minister Rohee pointed out that from the 2009 budgetary allocation, the sum of $22M has been spent on current and $4M on capital expenditure. He noted that in the coming months, a shift will be made in the type of resources provided to the policing groups.

He cautioned the policing group that nothing good can be achieved unless they conduct themselves in an organized and efficient manner.

Commissioner of Police Henry Greene said the Minister has delivered consistently, noting that he puts his heart and mind in his job.

Commissioner Greene pointed out that much has been achieved by the collaboration of the CPGs and the police, and commended the members whose support is vital in controlling crime levels in communities.

National Vice-Chairman, CPGs, Intiaz A Zafarali, also commended the Minister for staying his ground during the past three years while providing resources for enhancing the groups. (GINA)