GREEN ISLAND, Hanover — Salary negotiations will be among the list of items to be tackled by the newly elected eight-member executive of the Jamaica Police Federation.

“We have an upcoming salary negotiation. We have other outstanding issues to close off from the compensation review. I spoke about the second phase that needs that level of discussion to close off,” said Sergeant Arleen McBean, who was returned to lead the organisation that represents rank and file members of the Jamaica Constabulary Force.

She was speaking with the Jamaica Observer on the sidelines of the federation’s just-concluded annual conference which was held in Hanover.

Sergeant Lloyd Duncan, who was also returned as general secretary during the event, is confident that their team is strong enough to get the best deal for members during what he expects will be challenging negotiations.

“The compensation review lasted for three years and we completed the first phase. We didn’t get around to the second phase, which deals with allowances and all of that. We are expecting to get that out of the way before even going to the formal negotiation period,” he explained.

The wage issue is just one of the items members of the executive will tackle over the next year while in office.

McBean said the first step will be to head into a retreat.

“We have to do our SWOT analysis as a team to see where we are, have a discussion and build on that,” she told the Sunday Observer.

“There are great things ahead. We have different initiatives planned, but we have the support of the rank-and-file population and, by extension, the entire JCF, and that is a blessing,” added McBean.

She thanked members for their service.

“Not everything is perfect, but I encourage you to continue to shine and protect the citizens out there and continue to hold your head high. And allow your police federation to be your advocate. Be respectful and take care of yourselves and your family. That is critical,” said McBean.

“And to the Jamaica population, I just want to thank you for the marvellous support and prayers that you have given to each and every member of the Jamaica Constabulary Force. Continue to support us. We appreciate you,” added the federation chair.

Chair of the Jamaica Police Federation Sergeant Arleen McBean speaking with the Jamaica Observer at the Princess Grand Jamaica Hotel in Hanover last week.