Bermuda’s new Commissioner of Police, Stephen Corbishley says proactive communication will be the key to building a relationship with the Bermuda public.
Speaking at his first news conference yesterday, the British top cop said he wants to “work with local people”, particularly with “local communities”.
“I want to listen to their concerns, listen to what they need from the service to ensure they are safe, they feel safe and to address the challenges that they face, whether they be antisocial behaviour, drug use, organised crime or indeed anything that requires the service of the police,” he said.
“A lot of my track record with policing is to build very proactive relationships with communities.
“Quite often communities are lead not by people in government and politics, but local people who know what’s going on. It’s important that we engage with those people to listen, understand and respond to their concerns,” he added.
And he said road safety will be a priority with an emphasis on speed and drunk drivers.
On the issue of his appointment over and above a Bermudian, he said his international experience will benefit the Bermuda Police Service.
“The issue for me is as much about the value that I offer as the challenge of understanding the issues that affect Bermuda.
“I will give you reassurance that I will listen. My family are moving to Bermuda. We want to be part of the community.
“I’m not coming over here on a contract to perform a role and clear off.
“On top of that I bring perhaps a different viewpoint, some objectivity, some experience around international policing and some of the challenges in the UK, some of the partnerships, so I add value to the BPS.
“While it’s not about me, I think the role I will perform with my deputy in going forward gives not only the right direction moving forward, but an exciting journey ahead for the BPS in being able to serve Bermuda.”
Mr Corbishley’s most recent appointment prior to his appointment here was Assistant Chief Constable, the equivalent of acting Assistant with the Kent Police.
Another one of his priorities will be to establish a programme for developing talented Bermuda Police officers with leadership potential to prepare them for senior command positions within the next five years.
