Police union heads survive ‘no confidence’

The no confidence motion was brought by ASPs John Fredericks, Kenrick Edwards and Sgt Glen Teesdale at the central committee meeting at the Besson Street police station. The meeting started at 1 pm and ended at 5 pm.

Newsday understands the motion was presented by the three officers after they secured the signatures of 25 percent of the membership of the association to raise the motion. Both Ramesar and Seales were present and were asked to defend themselves based on the no confidence motion.

However, the two opted to allow the process to take its course and voting by secret ballot took place after the central committee discussed concerns by the membership over statements made by Ramesar and Seales recently about First Division officers collecting money to secure gun licences for members of the public.

Some association members felt that the two officers should have consulted with the membership and central committee before making such a statement and also felt that Ramesar and Seales brought the association into disrepute due to the statement.

Newsday understands the executive of the police service has since launched an investigation into the allegations made by the two officers.

Seales confirmed to Newsday that the no confidence motion brought against him and president of the association was defeated and although he feels vindicated, the experience has taught him a vital lesson that serving the membership is very important and the membership views are important.

Seales said the three who raised the motion did not get the two-thirds majority they needed to have Ramesar and himself removed, and the three appeared to be crushed by the defeat of the motion.

Newsday understands that for one year starting from yesterday, no member can bring any no confidence motion against the executive of the association.

“I had no worries, I felt vindicated, but the experience has taught us to be mindful of our membership and it is the membership that we are serving and remain true to our motto of service before self,” Seales said. The association’s executive is currently engaged in wage negotiations with the Chief Personnel Officer.