Prepare to secure TT

Joseph was speaking at the passing out parade for the 219 new soldiers at Teteron Barracks, Chaguaramas yesterday. He added that military, police and government officials have to work together to ensure that the military can contribute to the internal security of the nation.

“This phenomenon is now being referred to as a strategic shift from defending the state to securing the state,” said Joseph.

Joseph pointed out that global events over the past ten years have clearly shown that the rise in homegrown and internationally sponsored crime and terrorist activities require a different approach to law enforcement and national security. “The threat is no longer solely an external one, but one that is very much internally driven, therefore armed forces across the globe have had to transform themselves and this has meant an increased need for cooperation between armed forces and the civilian police,” said Joseph.

He added that the Regiment has established partnerships with other law enforcement agencies to combat serious crime such as illegal trafficking in drugs, arms and ammunition; car jacking and other duties.

He assured the soldiers that they are immediate beneficiaries of the recent interim increase in salary compenstaion for all Defence Force personnel. Joseph challenged all the recruits to face their new responsibilities with courage, pride and strength.

The continuous rainfall yesterday at the parade failed to dampen the spirits of the new regiment officers.