NTPA call to overhaul ‘archaic’ discipline system, as officers wait for up to 18 months for decision

CALLS are being made to overhaul the “archaic” system in which cops are disciplined by the police force

COPS have been forced to wait for up to 18 months at times to be disciplined by the police force, as the NT Police Association (NTPA) calls for an overhaul of the “archaic” discipline system.

NTPA president Paul McCue said the process in which matters were internally dealt with caused large amounts of stress on officers and lowered morale.

Matters typically to be reviewed internally include complaints from the Ombudsman and standard discipline issues.

MORE POLICE NEWS

Four teens identified in relation to series of suspicious playground fires

Booze and cars seized as cops crack down on grog running

Man charged over alleged serious assault of baby, woman

“The current archaic discipline system focuses too much on a punitive outcome, and not enough on the welfare and management of people,” Mr McCue said.

The NTPA had, for the past 15 years, called for the system to be updated, he said.

Despite the NT Police Force twice employing someone to independently review Part IV of the Police Administration Act in recent years, the NTPA said no recommendations have been adopted.

Northern Territory Police Association (NTPA) President Paul McCue. Picture: Che Chorley

A spokeswoman from the NT Police said looking after its officers was a priority.

“The Northern Territory Police Force continues to reframe the discipline process through improved practices as well as legislative reform of the Police Administration Act including the discipline processes,” the spokeswoman said.

“Our people are the top priority and changes to discipline process is part of the Project 2030 People Strategy reforms.”

LIMITED TIME – Discounted NT News subscription: Read everything for $1

Mr McCue said a more managerial guidance approach to discipline, one that educated and managed discipline outcomes rather than a heavy-handed approach, was needed.

“Waiting at times of up to 18 months for an outcome plays on officers minds, wondering what discipline action will be taken. It is completely unacceptable and a more contemporary process needs to be adopted which expedites these matters.”