Minister insists Special Constables not replacing full-time officers

Wed, 30 Nov 2016

Home Affairs Minister Bill Malarkey MHK

The Home Affairs Minister says Special Constables will not be used to replace full-time members of the Constabulary.

There are currently 35 Special Constables working for the Island's police, including 11 that were recruited earlier this year, with another recruitment drive planned for 2017.

Despite the number of police officers on the Island falling by 34 since 2011, Bill Malarkey insists Special Constables work alongside police officers, not instead of them.

Mr Malarkey also revealed more specialised Special Constables will be recruited in the future to help with IT operations and other specific areas.

The Minister was speaking following questions in the House of Keys from the two MHKs for Ramsey, where Special Constables are used in the community.