Monthly meal charges at training school being investigated

An internal investigation has been launched into complaints by recruits at the Regional Police Training Centre (RPTC) about the level of monthly fees they have to pay for meals.

President of the Barbados Police Association (BPA) Mervin Grace confirmed on Monday that he is aware of the situation and the association is keeping a close watch on the development.

“I know there is an issue with the amount being paid with the salary [recruits receive] at this point, but that is being investigated. I know for a fact that the administration at the training school is looking into the fees being paid. I am not sure how far they have gotten with that, but we are aware that there is a high fee in relation to meals,” Grace told Barbados TODAY on Monday.

Reports indicate that recruits are paid a “flat” salary of $2,600 per month, but between $900 and $1,300 is deducted for meals.

It’s also understood that about 20 of those impacted by the fees were planning to quit the training programme.

However, Grace refuted the claim.

“The idea that persons say they are planning to leave is not one that I can say I have heard about. I don’t think that that is correct. I heard the rumours just like you, so I asked a few questions…It is being investigated actively,” Grace pointed out.

Recruits in training are paid a salary on joining the service and are placed on two years’ probation.

Grace explained that from the time they have been accepted to train as a police officer, they are considered to have joined the service and can be.

“That is why you would see police recruits on the road sometimes. You are given your numbers even before you start training,” the police association head said.

emmanueljoseph@barbadostoday.bb