Minister Bedingfield announces a series of meetings in localities to listen to residents on security and public order
The Minister for Home Affairs and Security, Glenn Bedingfield, announced that over the coming weeks and months he will be visiting localities across Malta and Gozo to meet with residents and listen directly to their concerns and suggestions regarding security and public order.
Minister Bedingfield said this during a ceremony at the Police Depot during which 18 new inspectors and 27 new police patrol and community support officers were appointed.
The minister said that this initiative will be built on an open dialogue with the communities. “I will be going to the localities myself to meet with people and listen to everything they have to say about security and public order. I believe that the best solutions are born when we listen to those who experience the daily challenges in their communities,” said the minister.
He explained that the aim is to continue to strengthen the relationship of trust between communities and authorities, while ensuring that any concerns are addressed seriously and without delay.
“We will continue to work together with residents, local councils, community police and all entities involved to continue to strengthen the sense of security in every locality and deliver concrete results that make a difference in people’s daily lives,” the minister continued.
During the ceremony, 18 new inspectors were appointed, of which seven joined the Force directly at the rank of inspector after meeting the required academic qualifications.
In his address, the minister said that the rank of inspector brings with it greater responsibility and a leadership role that requires integrity, prudence, a sense of judgment and the ability to make difficult decisions. “Your conduct will reflect on the entire Corps. The success of the Corps depends not only on the laws it enforces, but also on the quality of its leadership,” the minister said.
He also welcomed the 27 new police patrol and community support officers and stressed that they will play a crucial role in continuing to strengthen the police presence in communities.
“Good order is not built only through law enforcement, but also through presence, dialogue and a relationship of trust with the people. You will be the face of the Force in our localities,” said the minister.
Police Commissioner, Angelo Gafà, called on the new Inspectors to be leaders who inspire, motivate, listen and are always available to their colleagues. He stressed that they should lead by example while making their decisions seriously, fairly and with courage.
The Commissioner stressed that courage should always go hand in hand with humility and said that the Corps is now more open, more willing to listen and more willing to support its members in the challenges they encounter. He encouraged the new Inspectors to consult, listen and learn from those around them before making decisions, while always putting people first. He reminded them to keep in mind the victims of crime, families, businesses and communities who expect a professional and empathetic service, while also giving importance to the well-being of their colleagues.
The Commissioner also congratulated the 27 new police patrol and community support officers and said that their introduction forms part of a long-term vision to build safer communities through intelligence-led policing, a more visible presence in localities and proactive measures that respond to people’s needs.
The minister concluded by reiterating the Government’s commitment to continue investing in the Police Force through investment in infrastructure, technology, training and the professionalism of officers, while thanking all members of the Force and their families for the dedication and sacrifices they make every day in the service of the Maltese and Gozitan people.
