ST JAMES, Jamaica (JIS) — The Government is working towards an April 1, 2016 date for the island’s district constables to become pensionable and be eligible for other benefits afforded to Government workers, including their counterparts in the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF).

Prime Minister Portia Simpson Miller made the announcement at the 24th Annual General Conference of the United District Constables Association held at the Cardiff Hotel and Spa, Runaway Bay, St Ann, yesterday.

Simpson Miller said Cabinet has given approval for the move and that only the legislative framework needs to be worked out for it to become a reality.

“Representations have been made to both the Ministry of National Security and the Ministry of Finance and the ministers have listened,” Simpson Miller noted.

“Instructions have been given to the chief parliamentary counsel to deal with this matter. Please understand that the work will have to be completed to ensure that the legislation is amended in time to reflect the change to meet this date,” she pointed out.

Simpson Miller said the Government remains steadfast and committed to protecting the citizens of the country, and the district constables have been playing a very important role in the process.

Stating that the nation owes a great debt of gratitude to district constables, she noted that for well over 100 years they have been integral in the fight to maintain law and order, and must be treated with the respect they deserve.

“I want to salute the many district constables…the stalwarts…who have given great service to this country. We are mindful of the many dangers you face…the sacrifices you have made. You are the ones, who brought to the fore, the meaning of the word community policing and we want you to know this nation appreciates the work you have been doing,” she said.

Simpson Miller noted that over 2,400 district constables have been deployed across the island, the highest number in many years, and are all now identifiable by their uniforms.

Acting Commissioner of Police (ACP) in charge of Area Two, Glenford Hudson, also commended the work of the district constables, particularly in the communities.

“I am confident that as we move forward, you will continue to strengthen and complement the work of the JCF so as to increase the confidence and commitment needed in serving the people of Jamaica,” he said.

As it relates to making the transition from district constables to regular police, ACP Hudson said they will be required to undergo an assessment process to determine their suitability.