A reserve civilian force as suggested by the minister of national security must not be separate from the regular force. This was how the Island Special Constabulary Force (ISCF) was started. They are part of the Jamaica Constabulary but have their own duplicated structure. In Port Antonio they now have their own separate police station. Yet, the only difference between them as I understand, is that JCF officers can be sent anywhere in Jamaica to work while ISCF officers only work in the parish in which they were recruited.

Civilian volunteers

It would ease JCF administration costs if the two command structures were merged and the distinguishing emblems removed. Only the personnel department needs to know if an officer is free to work anywhere on the island. It would also allow people to join up who do not want to work in a particular parish.

The new civilian volunteers would receive basic training and work alongside the professional officers.

In many police forces in the USA and now in the Metropolitan Police Force, London, only after several years as a volunteer is someone recruited to be a full-time officer thus ensuring that only suitable condidates get paid.

Other special constables will continue to spend two shifts a month helping out their local police.

I am, etc.,

DAVID SHENFIELD

david_shenfield@yahoo.co.uk

London.