Nagra Plunkett, Staff Reporter

WESTERN BUREAU:

THE MODERNISATION of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) has been extended to include changes in the dress code of policewomen.

Commissioner Lucius Thomas' announcement on Friday at the Jamaica Police Federation Conference in Trelawny, drew thunderous applause and cheers from the female delegates.

Effective immediately, policewomen are allowed to sport corn rows, rope twist braids and weaves. They can wear one pair of stud earrings while in uniform, two rings, inclusive of a wedding band, and colourless lip gloss.

"I hope my policewomen will respond in a responsible way to these changes as it is not a licence for gaudiness, but an appeal for continued proper grooming and decorum," the commissioner stated.

CONDITIONS

There are conditions, however, to the new dress code. Hair must be neatly done and ends properly tucked away; shells, beads and other hair accessories are prohibited. Plaits should be modest in size and twists, although allowed to be two-toned, should not have bright "outlandish" colours.

"I think it is great and it shows that we are moving with the times," remarked Corporal Camille Tracey.

Meanwhile, Senior Superintendent Jasmine Tomlinson-Brown, second in command of the Area One Police Division, is asking that female members of the JCF be cognisant of the need for moderation.

"The changes will enhance the appearance because some of us really look drab in our uniforms," she told The Sunday Gleaner. "Hopefully it will be kept moderate, but there will be consequences if that is not done."