RCIPS answers iNews Cayman’s question concerning helicopter
Further to iNews Cayman’s request for comment from the RCIPS re the sale of the police helicopter, following the statement by the Honorable Premier yesterday (25) a Police spokesperson said:
“The sale of the police helicopter has neither been discussed, nor has the impact of its loss been subject of any input by the RCIPS. The loss of the Air Operations Unit would have a considerable impact on our ability to maintain our current level of operational effectiveness. Equally it would negate the extension of its service as an air ambulance, which was so recently introduced. We are seeking URGENT clarification from Government on this matter.”
It was only on July 16th iNews published a story saying four members of the RCIPS Air Operations Unit had now certified emergency medical responders – thanks to a joint initiative between the Cayman Islands Health Services Authority and the police. In addition, the Cayman Heart Fund had very generously donated a defibrillator for use on the police helicopter.
The initiative meant the RCIPS Air Operations Unit was now classified as one of the first ‘Helicopter Emergency Medical Service’ (HEMS) of its kind. Staffed by police Tactical Flight EMR officers, it enhances and supports the first line medical response options within the Cayman Islands. In addition, helicopter awareness and safety training for the EMT paramedics was underway allowing paramedics to be deployed onboard the helicopter when needed.
It seems astounding, but unfortunately not surprising, that the RCIPS was never consulted over the Expenditure Review Committee’s (ERC) recommendation to sell the police helicopter.
How can a committee make recommendations without at least speaking to the parties involved? I have served on many committees and it is impossible to make a decision without obtaining the view of everyone that will be affected by your decision.
Who are these people that serve on these committees? What qualifications do they have for arbitrating on these matters that affect the country?
Perhaps the RCIPS can provide statistics on the benefits the helicopter has been and will be to the community and monies saved by having it there. I was going to add how much a life is worth but that doesn’t seem to come into the ERC’s thinking.
As our premier said, “it is simply unaffordable to this country. This will save in excess of $1.7 million.”
How did that figure equate?
