PM Harris commends security forces for their work so far this Christmas

As the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis holds the second Discounted VAT Rate Day in less than a week on Thursday, the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force and its partner agencies are coming in for praise from the business community and general public, as well as from the Prime Minister, Minister of Finance and National Security, Dr Timothy Harris.

Addressing the leadership and rank-and-file officers of the Police Force yesterday, Prime Minister Harris said, "The reports that I have had coming from the Chamber of Industry and Commerce are very encouraging and complimentary of our law enforcement officers."

Prime Minister Harris thanked "all units" of the national security apparatus then, speaking directly to the police who were gathered at their training complex, he said, "I want to congratulate you. You have been out there, you have been entering the banks, the establishments; persons are seeing you, persons have said that we had a quiet, uneventful VAT Day [last Friday, December 14th] in terms of criminal activity, largely because our police officers were up to the cause. So give yourselves another round of applause. I hope that over the season you will continue to be outstanding in your work."

Writing in a Special Force Order, which was published today, Thursday, the Prime Minister of St. Kitts and Nevis extended Christmas greetings to the leadership and rank-and-file officers of the Police Force, saying:

"Christmas is, for many of us, the favourite time of the year; it certainly is mine. The enchantment and wonder of the season can be seen, heard and felt all across our beautiful nation – in its churches, homes, stores, and streets.

"The bright, cascading lights of the season not only warm our hearts, but also offer the assurance of safety and security as we go about our lives, celebrating the birth of Jesus Christ and enjoying the Carnival activities in the company of family and friends.

"I am reminded now of the Book of James, which says in chapter 1 and verse 17 that, "Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows."

"Such excellent dependability in an ever-changing world is something that you, as leaders and rank-and-file members of the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force, should strive to maintain each and every year – for, as our people find a sense of ease in the season's bright lights so too are they comforted by the year-round presence and reliability of the Police Force.

"Cognizant of this, my Team Unity Government is focused, year in and year out, on achieving results and utilizing all available security assets to ensure the safety and security of the people of St. Kitts and Nevis."

Prime Minister Harris went on to thank the leadership and rank-and-file officers of the Royal St. Christopher and Nevis Police Force for their enthusiasm, dedication and productivity and also said that he looked forward to their continued loyal service. The Prime Minister then wished them and their loved ones a blessed and safe Christmas and a Happy New Year.