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The Commonwealth of Dominica Police Force can now boast of greater man power as fifty-one police recruits graduated from the 35^th Recruit Training Course and officially joined the ranks of the force.

The ceremony took place on Wednesday, March 30 2022 at the Windsor Park Sports Stadium.

Constable Daniel Laurent received the Instructors Award, Baton of Honor and while Tahz Robinson came in first runner up.

Constable Lekeisha Moses received the Best at Police Duty Award, while Constable Javid Casey received the award for Best at Drills.

The Best at Self Defense Award went to Constable Dany Chris Paul. Constable Curmichael Auguiste received the Best at Physical Training - Male while Constable Kayanna St. Hiliare was awarded the Best at Physical Training - Female.

Awards also went to Constable Cornal Africa for Best Shot; Constable Jusdel Bannis for Best at Weapon Training; Constable Shernel Rabess – Best Turned Out Female and Constable Troy Sandy – Best Turned Out Male. Constable Valerie Esprit received the Commissioner’s Shield for Most Disciplined Student.

 Minister for Health, Wellness and New Health Investment, Hon. Dr. Irving McIntyre, who spoke in the capacity of Acting Prime Minister, told the graduates that this was their chance to make a meaningful contribution to the development of Dominica.

“It is indeed a momentous occasion for you as you formally embark on this important career. Let me congratulate you on having successfully completed the six months of initial training. Your presence here is indicative that you have met the criteria set for graduation and you are mentally and physically prepared to face the world of work as a member of the Commonwealth of Dominica Police Force,” Dr. McIntyre stated.

Dr. McIntyre noted that the graduation ceremony was evidence of Government’s dedication to creating jobs for young people and the development of the economy.

“I commend you for your commitment and for the achievement of this significant milestone. This occasion is another demonstration of the Government’s commitment to the creation of jobs and training opportunities for all citizens and more specifically our young men and women. We understand that the more people who are gainfully employed the better it is for economic growth and the development of the country,” Dr. McIntyre noted.

Meanwhile, Minister for National Security and Home Affairs, Hon. Rayburn Blackmoore described the graduates as ‘true patriots of the soil’ as he congratulated them for taking the decision to serve their country.

“All of you standing here before me have responded with the highest honour to the call to serve this beautiful country of Dominica in the most noble and one of the oldest professions on earth. And you have done so, in many instances, at great sacrifice to your own personal development and your families. Twenty six of you contracted covid but that notwithstanding, you raised your hand and said I am here to serve my country. And that demonstrates the greatest patriotic attachment to our flag,” Hon. Blackmoore noted.

The National Security Minister urged the new graduates to serve their country and fellow citizens with courage, honesty, respect and compassion.

“You are joining the police service at a time of several reforms. And while many of the things we are doing require money to succeed a big chunk of this revolve around attitude. Attitude to work and attitude to country. We have to change the way we relate to and handle the public if real reform is to take place. You are therefore expected to show virtues such as respect for others, compassion and honest as well as compliance to the rule of law and above all courage. This is the hallmark of a reformed police officer,” Hon. Blackmoore added.

Chief of the Dominica Police Force, Mr. Daniel Carbon told the new recruits that to be an effective police officer, they must build meaningful relationships and trust with people from their various communities.

I exhort you to return to the various communities from where you came and build partnerships with the people in these communities. You must have a genuine and meaningful relationships with these people. You must do so by visiting the schools and participating in the activities. Be involved in PTA meetings and serve as active members. Speak to your community leaders and church leaders. Build a good rapport with them. Foster good relationships with sports clubs and youth groups in the communities. Work with farmers and fisher folks and establish healthy relationships with them. This will assist you tremendously in the work that you do as law enforcement officers,” the Police Chief urged the graduates.