Policewomen have equal chance to reach top posts

Parade: 100th anniversary of females in the force

Scotland’s most senior female police officer says that no role or rank is unattainable for women.

The comment came at a special passing out ceremony at Tulliallan yesterday, which also marked the 100th anniversary of women in policing.

Deputy Chief Constable Rose Fitzpatrick paid tribute to the new recruits, 40% of whom are women, and said the event was “a very important milestone”.

“The opportunities available to women have changed dramatically over the last century and there is now no role or rank in Police Scotland which a woman cannot attain,” she said.

“We are really delighted as a force to celebate the impact women have made on policing in the past and continue to make now.

“I am proud that Police Scotland is committed to ensuring equality and the availability of opportunities for all, regardless of gender, background sexuality or race.

“Today’s parade, especially with such a high proportion of female officers, enables us to celebrate the past and present and I wish all the officers involved the very best for their future in policing.”

Annabelle Ewing MSP said: “This is a historic day for Police Scotland and the rate of female recruits passing out this morning confirms that policing is a viable career for women in Scotland.”

cwilson@thecourier.co.uk

Picture: Kris Miller. Of the new recruits passing out at Tulliallan yesterday, 40% were women.

Picture: Kris Miller. Annabelle Ewing MSP and Deputy Chief Constable Rose Fitzpatrick attended the passing out parade, above left, which marked 100 years of women in policing.