Police law changes planned; minister silent on new commissioner but rejects Opposition proposal

Substantial amendments to the Police law are in the pipeline so as to remove the absolute powers enjoyed at present by the commissioner and to empower officers in lower ranks to take certain decisions, Home Affairs Minister Carmelo Abela said today. The changes are part of a 10-year strategy for the police force which is being drafted on the strength of a survey carried out among members of the force itself.  The main highlights of this plan, drafted by Prof. Saviour Formosa were unveiled in a press briefing addressed by Mr Abela. One of its key proposals is for better use to be made of existing personnel for core police duties, while other roles, such as that of drivers, would be handed to civilians.   Relieving the police of administrative and other ancillary duties could result in the deployment of up to an additional 600 officers who would be able to focus exclusively on law enforcement and crime, the study has concluded. In the survey, respondents complained about inadequate resources, “stifling bureaucracy” as well as health and safety concerns. Officers also complained that their wellbeing, such a proper counselling to face certain situations was not being given enough...