Charles Jr hails probation officers
STATE MINISTER in the Ministry of National Security Senator Pearnel Charles Jr has called on probation officers to begin seeing themselves as a major part of the nation’s national security machinery.
Addressing the annual general meeting of the Probation Aftercare Officers’ Staff Association at the Ocho Rios Baptist Church in St Ann on Thursday, the state minister said the work being done by members of the group is key to the Government’s crimefighting strategy.
“Probation officers are a significant part of the overarching national security policy and strategy to create safer communities. You are the front line soldiers,” Charles told the officers.
He said the ministry was aware of the challenges that probation officers face while carrying out their work, and noted that serious efforts are being made to have them addressed, beginning with the reclassification of the officers.
“We can never and will never be able, as a country, to
We can never and will never be able, as a country, to appreciate the work that you do. It is not easy. I know that you risk your life.
appreciate the work that you do. It is not easy. I know that you risk your life. I know that your family is very concerned when you go out and knock on doors and you don’t know what is behind them,” Charles said.
“I think we have done some good work so far with the reclassification. We are making strides and we are moving in the right direction.”