MEDIA STATEMENT 27 March 2002
The additional $2.5 million funding package announced by the Government today will help free up staff for front line duties and ease the current unique pressures on Police in the Greater Auckland area said Police Commissioner Rob Robinson.
"This additional funding will address the resourcing and recruiting issues in Auckland," said Mr Robinson.
The Government's package includes funding for;
60 additional non-sworn staff,
A second radio frequency, and,
A recruiting and training initiative targeting 17 to 22 year olds.
The addition of this funding package to the "baseline" budget ensures an ongoing commitment of funding for these activities beyond the current budget year.
"Police are committed to ongoing examination of the policing needs of the country’s fastest growing region," said Mr Robinson.
"These initiatives are largely in response to suggestions and requests put up by the commanders of the three Auckland districts and reflect local knowledge of local needs."
The funding for additional non-sworn staff will be for administrative and support positions, in areas such as file briefing, and in various public contact roles.
Details of the recruiting and training initiative are still being developed.
While this will have an initial emphasis on filling positions in the Greater Auckland area there will be places on the programme for young from all districts in due course.
The provision of a second radio channel will help ease radio traffic congestion and speed up query, dispatch and job resolution.
ENDS