Christmas Message 2024: Barbados Police Association

348

Dear Members,

As the 2024 Christmas season surrounds us with joy and reflection, I feel honoured to address you
on behalf of the Barbados Police Association (BPA). This year, like so many before it, has tested us
in ways that required determination, cooperation, and resilience. Yet, amidst challenges, we have
made great strides together, proving that our unity is the foundation of our strength.

This report serves not only as an account of our achievements and challenges but as a heartfelt
thank-you for your unwavering support. It is because of your commitment and contributions that
we can celebrate our progress and look ahead with hope.

Our Shared Achievements

1. Standing Strong Together for Better Benefits
   This year saw significant headway in advocating for your
   well-being. From hazard allowances to the establishment
   of the Senior Constable position, every step was guided
   by the belief that you deserve recognition, security, and
   support for your sacrifices and dedication. Your voices
   strengthened our collective case and helped push these
   measures forward.
2. Investing in Your Welfare
   Recognizing that service to others starts with self-care,
   we renewed the Group Health and Life Plan under com-
   petitive terms, ensuring that you and your families are
   cared for in times of need. Initiatives like the Fun Day
   and health fairs allowed us to come together, not just as
   colleagues but as a family that supports each other’s
   well-being.
3. Building for a Better Tomorrow
   Our stations and facilities are central to our daily work,
   and ensuring they are safe and functional remains a top
   priority. While challenges remain, progress at Black Rock
   and other stations reflects the perseverance of everyone
   involved. We will not stop until each member has a work-
   place that reflects the respect they deserve.
4. Fostering Financial Stability
   Despite rising costs, our Association remains financially
   sound, thanks to careful stewardship and your faith in
   us. Loans and grants continued to provide a lifeline to
   members in need, demonstrating the real difference we
   make in each other’s lives.
5. Strengthening Our Voice and Vision
   With the ongoing work on the BPA’s Constitution, we are
   laying the foundation for a more responsive and inclusive
   organization. Together, we are shaping a future where
   every member has a voice in the decisions that affect us
   all.

The Road Ahead

As we reflect on this year, it’s clear that there is still work to do. Challenges such as delayed policy implementations
and staffing shortages test our resolve, but they also remind us why this Association exists: to advocate, protect, and
serve those who give so much to protect others.

I call on you, the lifeblood of this Association, to continue lending your support. Attend meetings, share your ideas,
and let your voices be heard. Together, we can overcome any challenge and seize every opportunity.

A Personal Message of Gratitude

To each of you, I want to say thank you. Thank you for trusting the BPA to represent your interests. Thank you for
standing by each other through trying times. And thank you for your daily service to our communities, often at great
personal sacrifice.

This Christmas, let us cherish our families, our friendships, and the bond we share as members of this incredible or-
ganization. Let us renew our commitment to one another and the ideals that unite us. With your continued support, I
am confident that 2025 will be a year of even greater progress and achievement.

Wishing you and your loved ones a joyous and peaceful Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

In solidarity and service,
Wendley Carter, BSc., B.S.M., J.P.
President, Barbados Police Association