Discuss What You Face at the Workforce: Acting COMPOL
Women working in the Fiji Police Force have redefined the notion of law enforcement being a male dominated field, the Police’s acting Commissioner, Juki Chew, has said. He made the comment while opening the Pacific Faculty of Policing International Women’s Day Leadership Workshop in Suva, yesterday. About 30 women met at the Holiday Inn, Suva to discuss issues they face within the organisation.
The workshop was to help women raise awareness on the issues they face in the workforce daily.
“You all bring a different dimension to policing and that will never be disputed,” he said.
“The Fiji Police Force is an organisation that encourages equality and equity.”
Acting Commissioner Chew said with external support from Pacific Faculty of Policing and others were vital towards the development of the organisation.
The work of women in policing was not only recognised in Fiji, but across the region as well.
“We value and respect your contribution,” he said.
“And this is why we value existing partnerships.
“It optimises the saying when there’s a will, there’s a way.”
He said women must be bold to talk about issues that hindered their role in the workforce.
“Be free to discuss issues that you as a woman face where it be a personal or professional field,” he said. He said women in the organisation did not have to look far for inspiration because they existed in the force.
There are four women holding directorial posts while many others are part of the various management teams.
“You are given this space to meet and discuss challenges not from our perspective but from your perspective,” he said.
“I reassure you all that the senior hierarchy is committed to the spirit of ensuring equity in the workplace.
“And to work with you all in identifying gaps and softballs that can be addressed.”