TCI: Premier on appointment of new Deputy Commissioner

#Providenciales, August 6, 2019 – Turks and Caicos – My Government and the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands today welcome the news of having one of our very own appointed as the new Deputy Commissioner of Police within the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force.

I wish to first thank HE The Governor for seeing the potential that we all knew existed within our own Police Force among our Officers and for appointing Mr Rodney Adams. This speaks volumes not only to how he intends to respect us but also how he is prepared to work alongside with us.

After many years of occupying the highest ranks in our Police Force, a decision was made to appoint persons from outside the Organisation to occupy the most senior ranks; that of Commissioner and Deputy Commissioner. This was an unfortunate and disconcerting time for us as a people given the successes we enjoyed under our local leadership over the many years before.

Today, my Government is elated as we see this as a much needed shot of confidence for our Police Officers and marks the beginning of restoring our people to one of the two top leadership positions in the TCIPF. This we are certain will lift the spirits and morale of the hard working men and women in uniform given the most recent unfortunate statements made by the former Commissioner of Police on his departure after over 4 years of custodianship and leadership as to local Officers’ capabilities.

As a people we have served well over the years as leaders within this Organisation and no doubt we will continue. I know that former Commissioners and Senior ranks are indeed pleased to see this as it is a testament to their work. Whilst we continue to be exposed to various training given the regional and global challenges, policing in small, multi Island nations takes a unique, cultural approach.

Mr Adams has acted in this position previously for 3 years and with this appointment, he is being given the opportunity to serve at this level again. We encourage him to serve with humility, integrity, fairness and distinction. I invite him to draw on his teachings and experiences under former Commissioners and present colleagues recognizing this great opportunity given to him.

My Government ask only of the new Commissioner and Deputy Commissioner that they take care of the Officers in their Command just as faithfully as they institute their Policing Plans to ensure safety for all. My Government pledges our support and look forward to a fruitful and productive partnership.