Finer points of review brings clarity to Police
By Tim O?Connell
With the terms of reference now announced, critics and advocates have a better idea of what may be in store for the Hutt Valley?s Police service delivery review. The impending review of the Policing setup in the Hutt Valley as well as any possible amalgamation has been met with mixed reaction. Announced on February 11 by Wellington District Police Commander Superintendent Pieri Munro, it aims to provide a more effective method of policing the Hutt Valley. While many see the review-Project Awakairangi-as a way of addressing the worrying statistics regarding violent crime in the area, others have voiced concerns over the future of their constabulary. Police Minister Judith Collins has stressed that any decisions will have the best interests of the Hutt Valley in mind, although many local officials in Upper Hutt have been quick to put forward their concerns to the contrary. Among those campaigning against any merger is Upper Hutt Mayor Wayne Guppy and Rimutaka MP Chris Hipkins, who led a petition opposing any amalgamation. However, under the terms of reference four non-negotiable aspects are to be put in place which will be welcomed by those previously fearing Police cuts to the area. Included in these is a resolve to continue face-to-face service delivery by the Police, as well as an indication that no Police stations will be closed or downsized as a result. Local MP Paul Quinn is confident that more positives will emerge from Project Awakairangi later on, and that the announcement of the terms of reference should ameliorate the concerns of many in Upper Hutt. ?It?s important for people not to jump on political bandwagons, or to unfounded conclusions,? he said. ?The point of the review is, after all, to help the police do a better job.? A report highlighting the reviews findings is expected to be completed by June 30.
