Griffith slams Kamla on $$ for cops

NATIONAL Transformation Alliance (NTA) political leader and former commissioner of police (CoP) Gary Griffith has slammed Opposition Leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar for saying a future UNC government would consider giving monetary rewards to police officers to incentivise them to work harder to fight crime.

Persad-Bissessar made the promise at a UNC cottage meeting in Chaguanas on August 26.

At the same meeting, Persad-Bissessar accused Griffith of being a failure as CoP from 2018-2021.

Griffith served as national security adviser to Persad-Bissessar and national security minister during different times in the 2010-2015 tenure of the Persad-Bissessar-led People's Partnership coalition government.

In a statement on September 1, Griffith said, "I assert that our police service seeks recognition and support far beyond financial compensation."

He added that while Persad-Bissessar's call might have good intent "it demonstrates a lack of understanding of the national security-matters, similar to the call for ‘every law-abiding’ person to get a legal firearm."

Griffith grounded his views in his 17 years in the Defence Force and roles as a national security minister, national security advisor, and CoP.

"I understand the profound dedication of those in uniform, and while no one should turn down financial benefits, it must be understood that they are not primarily motivated by monetary rewards but by the honour and responsibility of their role in society."

He said the call for monetary incentives overlooked the fundamental needs and aspirations of police officers.

"Focus should be on providing comprehensive support that addresses the core requirements and well-being of our officers."

Griffith identified timely payment of back pay and overtime and equipping police officers with necessary tools such as body cameras, updated bulletproof vests, and armoured vehicles, as some of those requirements.

He recalled that measures taken during his tenure as CoP significantly lifted the spirits of police officers, and that was "demonstrated by a historic rise in public trust from 14 to 59 per cent."

Griffith said the decline in public trust to eight per cent, as highlighted in a recent survey done by the Police Service Commission, "is not a reflection of the police service’s failure but a failure of state support and provision, and that (failure) of the hierarchy of the TTPS (TT Police Service) to resist political interference."

He added that focus should be placed on real, substantive support for the police, enhancing their operational capacity and ensuring they receive the respect and resources they rightfully deserve.

"This comprehensive approach, rather than mere financial incentives, will truly empower our officers and reflect our deep appreciation for their service to our nation."

Last week, former PP government minister Dr Devant Maharaj took a similar position on the issue.

Griffith's statement is the latest instalment in a widening rift between Persad-Bissessar and himself.

This rift began in February when Persad-Bissessar accused smaller political parties, like the NTA of piggybacking on the UNC and bringing no benefit to that party.

The rift widened on August 26 with Persad-Bissessar's direct attack on Griffith and his response to it.

The NTA, Congress of the People (COP) and HOPE (Honesty, Opportunity, Performance, Empowerment) are currently in talks for an alliance for next year's general election.

While this is happening, it seems the chances of a similar alliance between the NTA and UNC are becoming increasingly remote.

Both parties had an alliance for last August's local government elections which ended in a 7-7 tie between the PNM and UNC.

The NTA did not win any electoral districts but managed to have an alderman appointed to the Diego Martin Borough Corporation.