Cop import is a ‘slap in the face’

THE recruitment of a Victorian to the upper echelons of Queensland’s police service has prompted the police union to brand it an insult to alreadydemoralised local candidates.

Police Commissioner Ian Stewart announced a raft of changes yesterday, including the appointment of five new assistant commissioners and the reassignment of three existing deputy commissioners.

But Queensland Police Union president Ian Leavers says the inclusion of current VicPol Assistant Commissioner Tracy Linford is a slight to the force’s existing staff.

“It is a slap in the face for all ... Queensland police,” he said. “I do not believe we need to import talent.” While he stressed he had no personal qualms about Ms Linford, Mr Leavers said the reshuffle would only further demoralise staff left “gobsmacked” by the changes. “Since the Fitzgerald inquiry, (morale) has never been lower,” he said.

Mr Stewart insisted the restructure would help the force tackle pressing issues such as terrorism, the so-called ice epidemic and domestic violence.

The Police Commisioner also defended the recruitment of Ms Linford, who has counter-terrorism experience, through a merit-based process.