Rowley: 'Strong insurance policy' for cops under review

THE Prime Minister has said that the National Security Ministry is considering "liaising with the Commissioner of Police (Gary Griffith) for a strong insurance policy" to account for situations such as officers who die from the covid19 virus.

He was responding to questions in Parliament on Friday.

Couva South MP Rudranath Indarsingh asked: In light of the recent deaths of 12 police officers who have succumbed to the covid19 virus, could the Prime Minister inform this House if the Cabinet has given due consideration and approval for the payment of monetary compensation similar to which are paid to the families of officers who were killed in the line of duty?

This is something the Police Social and Welfare Association has been lobbying for. It also met with National Security Minister Fitzgerald Hinds in May to discuss a proposal to pay $1 million to the families of police officers who contract covid19 on the job and die.

Dr Rowley reminded the House that currently monetary compensations for police are for those who are killed in the line of duty.

"For example, police officers who are shot and killed or attacked by criminals or in hot pursuit whilst on duty. Officers who have died from covid19 will not fall under this category," he said.

"However, the Ministry of National Security is considering liaising with the CoP towards a strong insurance policy for police officers that would include such other situations."

Indarsingh asked if a risk allowance is being considered, but he said he is aware it is a matter "attracting the attention of the Commissioner of Police," and that he could not say more.