On Monday, 14 September, eleven recruits graduated from training to begin operational duty with the RCIPS.  

These eleven recruits, comprising of eight women and three men, were introduced by Superintendent Adrian Seales, Head of the Training and Development Unit, after successfully completing the RCIPS Recruitment Training Course. Over the course of sixteen weeks the recruits went through rigorous training, ending with a final exam and will now be placed on shifts as needed. During their first six months on the job, they will undergo a mentorship program with experienced police officers, who will assist and guide them.

The Commissioner of Police, Mr. Derek Byrne addressed the graduating class giving them words of encouragement and motivating them to do their best. “Thank you for stepping up. Policing by its very nature is without doubt one of the best jobs in the world. Every single day is different. You are out there helping people in so many ways, making a difference to people’s lives. Be consistent in carrying out your duties. Consistency is comparable to integrity. Doing the right thing all of the time even when no one is watching. Be competent. Enhance your credibility by demonstrating good common sense, sound judgement, technical abilities and professionalism.”

His Excellency the Governor, Mr. Martyn Roper  also made his remarks to the recruits saying “The overall majority of people in our community want you to be there and need you to be there and your efforts at work will make a difference in people’s lives, which is what we aspire to do in the public service. I sincerely hope you will follow your responsibilities with integrity and pride as we continue to build a world class civil service. I want to congratulate you all and I thank each one of you for your joining the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service and for the service you will give for many years to come. ”

Following the speech from the Governor, PC Justina Anderson, who was chosen by the Graduating Class 1 of 2020, gave their response about the training they received. During her speech, she expressed gratitude to the trainers A/PS Jonathan Kern, PC James Fordyce and Drill Instructor A/PS Odale Mulgrave for all their efforts and for going the extra mile to ensure their success.

A/PS Jonathan Kern gave some insight into the training and spoke about how the COVID-19 Pandemic affected the training process. He then sought the assistance of the Honourable Deputy Governor, Mr. Franz Manderson, who was also in attendance, in presenting the special awards to five recipients who excelled in various areas during training.

·         Best Academic Achievement Award – PC Shanique Frater

·         The Resilience Award – PC Angelita Durrant

·         The Team Spirit Award –  PC La-Vann Sheriffe

·         Best Drill and Deportment – PC Thalia Naranjo  

·         Overall Outstanding Student –  PC Shawn Dsouza.

The RCIPS congratulates the Recruit Class 1 of 2020 on successfully completing their training course and wish them all the best in their future service to the Cayman Islands.