Island constables for tourism prescribed areas begin training

Training for Island Constables who will work in Tourism Prescribed Areas commenced at the Police Training School on Monday, January 21 with about thirty (30) participants.

The Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force is partnering with the Ministry of Tourism to deliver the training. Persons who successfully complete the month-long course will be sworn-in by the Governor-General. National Security Adviser, Retired Major General Stewart Saunders, said over the next few weeks the participants will learn about the law, how to write reports and take statements. He added that they will be exposed to training in how to improve their observation skills, interacting with people, and learn about the history of St. Kitts and Nevis, as well as the history of the Tourism Industry. Training will also include how to give accurate directions, customer service and conflict resolution.

The course will be taught by instructors at the Training School, who will primarily cover areas concerning the law and policing, along with guest lecturers who will cover other specific topics. Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of National Security, Osmond Petty, told the participants that what they will learn during the course would be critical to their success as an Island Constable. He added that they could consider themselves auxiliary to the Police; providing critical support in the field.

Acting Commissioner of Police Hilroy Brandy informed the persons present that they would be serving as vital frontline ambassadors.

"Our Island Constable unit continues to provide a valuable connection between the Police and our key industry," Acting Commissioner Brandy said.

His words were further supported by Product Development Manager at the Ministry of Tourism, Melnicia Marshall, who stressed the significance of the Tourism Industry to the economy. She explained that the sector alone accounted for 25% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), adding that the Island Constables would be charged with guarding this lucrative and vital sector.

"Just last year alone we welcomed just over 1 million passengers to the Federation via our cruise industry. It then signals that we are part of a very elite group of ports that are called the marquee ports. And as Marquee ports we have to ensure that our customer service remains at a very high level. We have to ensure the safety of our visitors because more and more visitors will be visiting St. Kitts...," Marshall added.