“Police welcome the passing of the Policing (Constable’s Oaths Validation) Amendment Bill 2013 in Parliament this afternoon.
The legislation validates the oaths of office taken by 63 Police employees between 13 October 2009 and 3 July 2013.
The 63 officers were ex-constables who rejoined the Police and were re-sworn into their role by District Commanders or Inspectors.
Under the Police Act 1958 the District Commanders and Inspectors were authorised to administer the oath however their powers were not specifically recognized in the Policing Act 2008 (which replaced the 1958 Act).
Police sought legal advice when this technical issue was identified and acted to rectify the situation.
In addition, all 63 Police employers have now been re-sworn into their role by a person authorised to administer the oath.”
Acting Commissioner Viv Rickard