By Glenroy Sinclair, Staff ReporterSENIOR OFFICERS of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) are disgruntled and in the process of seeking legal advice in relation to a three-year work contract being proposed to them by the Police Service Commission (PSC).
Senior Superintendent Leon Rose, chairman of the Police Officers Association (POA) not only confirmed the move, but said the POA will be having a meeting with the affected officers to further discuss the matter.
"We will be looking at the legal implications and the terms of contract and services. We are in consultation with our lawyers," Rose told The Gleaner.
The move will immediately affect at least 42 officers from Senior Superintendent to the Commissioner's rank. At present there are 25 SSPs, 12 Assistant Commissioners, four Deputy Commissioners and the Police Commissioner in the senior officer core of the JCF.
The major concern for the JCF personnel is that they may move from a position of permanent employment, to one of uncertainty. Also, they are uncertain as to whether they will have to retire and collect their redundancy benefits before signing the new contract. They are worried that after the first three years their contracts may not be renewed.
"It does not guarantee the rank of Superintendent any mobility. At the moment something is very cloudy," said SSP Rose.
Among the functions of the Police Service Commission are:
Proposals for appointments and or promotion of members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force to and above the rank of Inspector of Police.
Confirmation of appointments of and above the rank of Inspector of Police.
Selection of members of the JCF for training courses and approving applications for the grant of study leave.
Disciplinary proceedings against members of and above the rank of Inspector.
The hearing of appeals from all ranks.
