COOPERATION between the police and private security agencies took another step forward last week when a training course for security officers was hosted here.
A three-day Professional Development Workshop for Security Officers brought together police and private security agencies to discuss issues related to, among other things, tightening cooperation between police and security firms island-wide.
The workshop, held on September 29, October 6 and October 13, featured officers from the Major Crimes Unit of the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force (RSLPF) lecturing to security officers of various ranks on issues that will help the security officers do better at their job of providing coverage.
Another key aim of the exercise was to increase cooperation between the police and private security firms in the interest of national security.
Subjects addressed over the three days included: Security and the Police Role, Customer Service Supervisory Skills, Firearm Safety and Deportment, Care of Weaponry, Security Officersā Responses to Acts of Crime, Safety Tips, Human Trafficking, Impromptu Speaking and Observation Techniques.
The participants ā police and private security officers ā also undertook a group exercise to apply what was learnt.
Gabriel Pierre, Managing Director of Secure St. Lucia, was one of the participants, along with other representatives of his firm.
Contacted by The VOICE, Pierre said āIt was a very good idea by the police, who are the Number One national security agency on the island, extending a training programme to include the private security firms.ā
According to Pierre, āItās a win-win situation because, as a result of that greater level of training and exposure, security officers will be much better equipped to assist in providing better security coverage across the island.ā
Secure St. Lucia is the oldest local private security agency on the island and also operates island-wide.