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Last Updated: May 6, 2019 - 6:44:42 PM |
Hon. Marvin H. Dames
Minister of National Security
Commonwealth of The Bahamas
Remarks
Graduation Ceremony
Senior Professional Certification in Law Enforcement Leadership Programme
at
University of The Bahamas
Performing Arts Center/UB Auditorium
2 p.m.
Monday, May 6, 2019
Thank you Madame Moderator.
- Commissioners Ferguson and Murphy and their leadership teams
- Provost of the University of The Bahamas, Dr. Linda Davis and her senior colleagues,
- Dr. Lorraine Bastian-Jones, Head, Professional & Personal Development Department
- Distinguished faculty and staff from the University of The Bahamas,
- Other Police & Correctional Officers,
- Excited Program Graduates and their loved ones
- Ladies and gentleman,
Good afternoon.
Over eight weeks ago when this intensive and instructive law enforcement leadership programme was launched, we were extremely enthusiastic about the high-level of quality education and training that our public safety leaders were about to receive.
And today, an even higher level of enthusiasm exists as these 16 proud senior officers of the Royal Bahamas Police Force and the Bahamas Department of Correctional Services will shortly receive their diplomas, in Law Enforcement Leadership.
When our Government made a commitment to ensure that our law enforcement officers received the most comprehensive and prestigious training available, we knew right away that it had to begin with our very own University of The Bahamas. From 1974, this noble institution and its distinguished faculty have consistently provided quality opportunities for higher learning. This University’s legacy reflects a distinct pledge to responding to national needs. Students and faculty have remained the cornerstone of this vibrant teaching institution which is expanding research initiatives that focus on sustainable national development. Your academic programmes, collaborations, and public-private partnerships will continue to strengthen the overall development of our great nation.
Allow me to publicly thank UB’s President Dr. Rodney Smith and the Provost, Dr. Linda Davis, for agreeing to partner with the Ministry of National Security on a very critical aspect of development in our law enforcement agencies. Thank you President Dr. Smith, Dr. Davis and faculty.
Ladies and gentlemen,
As criminality evolves and becomes more sophisticated, it is important for public safety officials to make use of cutting-edge technology being used around the globe. As you are well aware, our Government has invested millions of dollars in acquiring and operating a number of these technologies including the Shot Spotter Technology; CCTV; drones; body-worn cameras to name a few. Notwithstanding these innovative tools, our Government sees the importance of investing in our people first because we realize that it is the people behind the technological advancements, who once properly trained and motivated, will bring about the needed success.
Advanced training beyond initial recruitment ensures confidence in officers who are often called upon to make decisions which impact the lives of others inclusive of taking the life of another; suspending an individual’s constitutional rights; making arrests; and conducting searches under the prescribed law. Senior law enforcement officers have an even greater need for professional development, as their decision-making skills can determine the overall success of their agency’s strategies and initiatives.
Ladies and gentlemen,
As the undercurrents of crime and criminality change along with other social factors in the country, so should the training and developmental needs of law enforcement organizations. Globally, this constant change in crime trends and patterns gives credence to the demand for occupational professionalism in public safety work.
The dynamic and complex nature of law enforcement in an evolving world also requires public safety officials in the 21st century to be proficient in many non-traditional areas. Although leadership based, this Law Enforcement programme included modules in a number of other technical areas such as, Finance, Budgeting, Written Communication, Oral Communication, and Human Resource Management.
Ladies and gentlemen,
Over the last two years, we have been witnessing a major professional transformation across our law enforcement agencies. Our agencies are seeking – and have been attracting – more qualified and competent Bahamians who are looking for a rewarding career in law enforcement and who bring a wide range of special skills and talents with them.
To the graduates this afternoon, I want you to know that the expectations of you are indeed very high. Your newly strengthened skills and competencies must be put to use in order to move our agencies forward.
We are excited about our new partnership with Georgia State University through the Georgia International Law Enforcement Exchange. Beginning this weekend, graduates will begin traveling overseas to complete the second portion of your leadership training. Each of you will be working on attachments with law enforcement leaders from agencies in the United States at the Federal, State and local levels. Garner as much knowledge as you can, make us proud, and know that we look forward to your safe return.
As I close, I admonish the Commissioners of both agencies to continue to encourage all of your officers. Challenge them and give them space and opportunities to develop their talents.
On behalf of the Government and people of The Bahamas, I congratulate the graduates on achieving this significant milestone in their professional careers and wish them the very best.
God bless you and may God bless the Commonwealth of The Bahamas.
© Copyright 2019 by thebahamasweekly.com
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