The Royal Cayman Islands Police Service (RCIPS) announced today (Wednesday, 25 March 2015) a second recruitment drive to attract locals between 18-40 years into active police careers.

From Monday, 30 March to Thursday, 30 April the campaign will seek to recruit between 12-15 men and women as trainee constables.

Successful applicants will receive intensive training for two years and eventually be posted in areas such as: criminal investigation, traffic, marine and air patrols, financial crime, family support unit and the K-9 unit.

To be eligible for these positions applicants should be Caymanian or permanent resident with the right to work. They should also have suitable qualifications, be eager to serve the community, and physically able to get through the selection process.

A press conference was held this morning to announce the drive. It was attended by senior RCIPS staff members including Police Commissioner David Baines.

Mr Baines commented, “We are once again looking for a few good local men and women to join one of the world’s most rewarding professions. This time, we have extended the age limit to 40, from 30 during the first drive, to widen the eligibility criteria for our local population.”

“The merits of employing locals are obvious when it comes to their knowledge and understanding of the dynamics within our community,” Commissioner Baines emphasised.

Deputy Commissioner of Police Anthony Ennis added, “Policing can be a challenging and demanding profession, but the satisfaction of helping to protect our community by making it a safe place to live, work and visit, means that this is one of the most gratifying career choices that a potential candidate can make.” He noted that the salary for PC recruits ranges from $31,272 – $42,096, with an additional 4% to be factored in from 1 July 2015 to reflect a planned cost of living allowance.

Chief Superintendent Kurt Walton, a veteran of 20 years who has worked his way up the ranks, described his career as a testament to the opportunities within the RCIPS for upward mobility. “If they offer dedicated and diligent service, our young officers can look forward to an outstanding career with the RCIPS,” he added.

RCIPS Training and Development Manager, Inspector Kevin Ashworth explained that the training in store for selected recruits, while rigorous, would provide a solid grounding in all aspects of police operations. They could also look forward to continuing learning and development both locally and abroad.

Recruits from the first batch of candidates to enter the force as part of a dedicated local recruitment process back in 2013-2014, PCs Patricia Sevik and PC Andre Strachan, outlined the training they have undergone and encouraged young persons to apply, if they want satisfying careers.

A six-stage selection process includes an entrance written test in Math and English, a physical test, a structured interview and a medical test. Once selected, new recruits face 16 weeks’ initial training, followed by on-the-job training from tutor constables, that they have to successfully complete as part of a two-year probationary period.

More information, full eligibility criteria and application forms can be obtained at www.rcips.ky/careers . Forms should be completed and submitted electronically.

Photo captions Photos by Bina Mani, GIS

RCIPS Commissioner David Baines (third from left), with (from left) Training and Development Manager, Inspector Kevin Ashworth, Deputy Commissioner Anthony Ennis and Chief Superintendent Kurt Walton launched Wednesday, 25 March 2015 the RCIPS’ second recruitment drive for applicants from Caymanians or permanent residents with the right to work. Starting 30 March, the campaign runs until 30 April.

Recruits from the first drive, PCs Patricia Sevik and PC Andre Strachan were on hand to answer media queries.

L-r: RCIPS Training and Development Manager, Inspector Kevin Ashworth, Deputy Commissioner Anthony Ennis, PCs Patricia Sevik and PC Andre Strachan, Commissioner David Baines and Chief Superintendent Kurt Walton