Police to enlist 150 recruits

The police force yesterday celebrated Police Day with 27 officers receiving a long service and efficiency medal after spending at least 18 years in the corps. Another 30 were promoted to the rank of sergeant.

Speaking during the presentation of medals and appointments, Police Commissioner John Rizzo recalled how proud he had been on receiving such a medal and urged the officers to shine and be a guiding light to their peers.

Congratulating those who passed the tests, he urged those who had not made the grade not to be disheartened and continue studying as there would be more openings in future.

Mr Rizzo said the police were there to fight criminality and help people. They had to balance discipline with concern for others. He urged officers to treasure integrity and be honest.

Home Affairs Minister Tonio Borg said the government was determined to keep equipping the police force so that they would be able to fight criminality effectively.

Dr Borg said some 150 recruits would be enlisted over the coming months.

Malta should join the Schengen Agreement next year if it meets the criteria and the police force had to be equipped to be able to defend the EU's frontiers by then, Dr Borg said.

The Schengen Agreement allows for the abolition of systematic border controls between the participating European countries. It also includes provisions for a common policy on the temporary entry of persons, the harmonisation of external border controls, and cross-border police cooperation. In a statement, opposition spokesman Gavin Gulia saluted members of the police corps and said the government should ensure they were well motivated in carrying out their duty. Their morale should be kept high by respecting their dignity and giving them merit where merit is due.

Police Day was marked by a series of activities. A parade was held at St George's Square, Valletta, followed by a performance by the police band and displays by the precision drill team and dog section.

A Pontifical Mass was held on the occasion of the 193rd anniversary of the force, concelebrated by Archbishop Paul Cremona and Gozo Bishop Mario Grech. This was attended by a number of dignitaries including the President and Mrs Fenech Adami, the Prime Minister and Mrs Gonzi, Dr and Mrs Borg and the Parliamentary Secretary at the Ministry for Justice and Home Affairs Carmelo Mifsud Bonnici and Mrs Mifsud Bonnici.