THE Golden Grove/Diamond Station Management Committee on Saturday held a fund-raising exercise on the lawns of the Golden Grove Police Station, the proceeds of which will go towards enhancing the station’s infrastructure. 

This Committee was established in 2008 by Minister of Home Affairs, Mr Clement Rohee, with the overarching aim of improving relations between the police and citizens, since public support is seen as vital to intelligence gathering, which will, in turn, enable the Guyana Police Force (GPF) to be more efficient.
As Committee Chairman, Mr Sewchand, explained, membership also plays an oversight role in the management of the Station, and even acts in an advisory capacity from time to time so as to improve operations.
He said that as of 2008 to present, the Committee has remained vibrant, and managed to garner the support of surrounding communities, and that without residents’ support, it would be difficult to accomplish their goals and objectives.
Minister Rohee, who was present at the event, said activities such as the the fundraiser help bring communities together and allow for residents to really understand the role and functions of a Station Management Committee.
Such committees, which have been established all across the country, he said, allow for a harmonious relationship between police and civilian, whereby they assist each other towards the building of safer neighbourhoods.
“To bring the citizens and the Stations closer is a continuing exercise and a work in progress…Both the police as well as residents stand to benefit,” Minister Rohee said.
The event saw the drawing of a raffle, the prizes of which comprised: A bicycle, a television set, a DVD player, a blender, and several hampers. Residents were also given ‘Sprinkles’ and other vitamins, courtesy of the Ministry of Health.
Station Management Committees were first initiated by the GPF in 1996 by then Commissioner of Police, the late Laurie Lewis, and comprised police personnel and influential persons in the communities, with the initial thrust being to assist with the maintenance of infrastructure, equipment and vehicles. (GINA)