Head of the TT Police Service Social Welfare Association (TTPSSWA) Gideon Dickson has warmly welcomed Marvin Gonzales as the new Minister of National Security. He praised Gonzales for what he called promptly reaching out to the association.
"By 8 am today, March 18, minister Gonzales had contacted the association with the intention of arranging a formal meeting," Dickson said.
In a phone interview with Newsday, Dickson said the meeting would take place within the next week "or so."
Gonzales, who previously served as the minister of public utilities, was sworn in as the Minister of National Security on March 17 at President's House, St Ann's, replacing Fitzgerald Hinds, who is now a Minister in the Office of the Prime Minister.
"This quick outreach is commendable and revives the relationship that existed when current Prime Minister Stuart Young held the position of minister of national security."
Young served in this role from November 2018 to March 2020.
Dickson outlined several key issues he hopes Gonzales will address, with a focus on improving the allocation of resources for police officers.
"One of the primary concerns is ensuring that officers have the necessary tools, training, and legislative support to effectively combat crime."
Another pressing issue Dickson said is the low morale among officers, which he attributes to various factors.
"Officers' morale is being significantly affected by multiple issues. If minister Gonzales can apply his expertise and engage in strategic collaboration to address these challenges — particularly around promotion processes — it would go a long way in improving morale."
The Police Service has been instructed to restart its promotion process for officers advancing from the rank of inspector to assistant superintendent of police (ASP).
On February 18, High Court judge Frank Seepersad ruled the promotion process was “irrational, unreasonable and illegal” following a lawsuit challenging its fairness.
He also ruled against granting a stay on his order, citing significant procedural breaches.
Inspector Mark Hernandez, who filed the judicial review, argued the process lacked fairness, transparency and adherence to regulations. As a result, an injunction was placed, halting the promotion of about 169 inspectors to the rank of ASP.
"The service needs to revisit its processes, potentially reviewing the law. Additionally, the bureaucratic hurdles in the procurement process are hindering the TTPS’s ability to acquire the necessary equipment."
Dickson believes amending procurement legislation is crucial for improving operational effectiveness. He stressed addressing these issues could allow the service to recruit more specialist officers, enhancing overall capabilities.
"These changes will positively impact both the service and the families of the officers. Although the police service’s terms and conditions may not fall directly under minister Gonzales’ purview, we trust he can influence positive change. It’s important to respect and empower the police fo
