Proposed changes to police firearms training is about ensuring response staff get more training than they do now in dealing with critical incidents Assistant Commissioner (Operations) Viv Rickard said today.
"Suggestions that the review was about cost cutting or mean untrained staff would be expected to deal with firearms incidents were incorrect" said Mr Rickard.
"The Police Executive is of the view that a "one size fits all" approach to firearms training is no longer appropriate and work has been underway on this project for over a year"
"A tiered approach to training will tailor training to specific roles, much of it to a higher level than currently provided.
"Some police officers are in roles where they will not deal with critical incidents involving firearms. It makes sense for the training resource they would have received to be given to those actually dealing with those incidents"
"Should an officer change roles then they will get the appropriate training they need for their new job."
"Police are still in the process of working up the detail but it is anticipated around 40 percent of operational staff will receive more firearms training than they do at present"
"For example all rural officers and staff at 1,2 or 3 person stations in isolated areas will be designated as first responders and receive more training than they do now."
"The proposed changes will also help maintain our absolute commitment that NZ Police remain a routinely unarmed service"
"I should add that the review of training is still under consideration and that ensuring the safety of police staff and the public is the key focus here". said Mr Rickard.
Ends
Editors note:
The proposed changes involve a three tiered model for training:
First responders and their immediate supervisors will have access to training for both the Glock pistol and Bushmaster rifle. If necessary they can take action to prevent casualties prior to the arrival of specialist staff such at the Armed Offenders Squad.
Second responders would be given training in the Bushmaster rifle. Their role would be to cordon and contain.
All other staff would receive training in defensive tactics such as baton and OC (pepper) spray but not firearms.