Cops sad over stalled promotions

Half of the officers were scheduled to receive their letters at 10 am yesterday and the second batch at 2 pm. A message was sent to all police divisions yesterday, cancelling the meeting with the Ag Commissioner.

Most of the promoted officers had already put in place celebratory events to mark their elevation to a higher rank. Most of the officers expressed concern over the matter claiming they have been waiting more than three years to be promoted.

Late Sunday, High Court judge Judith Jones granted an ex parte injunction, blocking 302 constables from being promoted to the rank of corporal.

Justice Jones made the decision after a motion by Attorneys Om Lalla and Kelvin Ramkissoon acting on behalf of 40 acting corporals.

The officers are contending that the new points-based system of promotion was illegal and ultra vires to Regulation 20 of the Police Service Commission Regulations.

High Court Marshals yesterday served both Acting Commissioner Glen Roach and a member of the Police Service Commission with the judge’s order. Yesterday, Secretary of the Police Association Noel Chase told Newsday that it was a very unfortunate situation for the 302 officers and the TT Police Service.

Sgt Chase is of the view that the stalled promotions will impact on morale in the service and is hoping the matter is settled soon.