NT Police Association president Paul McCue to resign in May

NT police union president Paul McCue has resigned, revealing why he’s stepping down amid the “toughest” few years officers have ever faced.

The Territory’s police union boss will step down from the top job, citing the “toughest” few years officers have ever faced.

NT Police Association president Paul McCue has announced he will resign in May after an 11-year tenure with the organisation, including the past eight years at the helm.

It comes shortly after the damning results of a union survey showed more than eight in 10 responding members had considered quitting in the past year, while 97 per cent said they felt unsupported by the government.

In a letter to members obtained by this publication, Mr McCue said being president was “the most rewarding job” he had ever held.

Northern Territory Police Association president Paul McCue is set to resign from the organisation in May. Picture: Che Chorley

“There has been no more fulfilling role in my career than representing the people who I consider are the most courageous and committed that I know,” he said.

“For the past ten plus years, I have dedicated my life and my career to my khaki and blue family.

“This has come at significant sacrifice to my own family life.

“You know when the time is right, and for me, that time is now.

“Life is too short and there comes a time where family must come first.”

The letter was sent to members on Wednesday as nominations opened for the union’s seven executive positions.

Mr McCue has been fighting to secure a pay increase for police amid fears the Territory will lose up to 160 officers each year to more attractive job prospects interstate and overseas.

He said he remained committed to having the pay rise finalised.

In January, the union said members had been without a pay rise for 18 months.

“The last few years, in my humble opinion, have been the toughest we’ve ever faced,” Mr McCue wrote to NTPA members.

Police Union boss Paul McCue said the Yuendumu incident was one of several challenges that has tested police “like never before”. Picture: (A)manda Parkinson

“The Yuendumu critical incident, followed closely by the Covid pandemic, has tested us like never before, not to mention the many other challenges we have collectively faced.

“I am humbled that you put your faith in me, to represent your views and concerns and I am only too conscious of the trust you bestowed upon me to undertake this critical role.

“Every single day I have tried to live up to that trust.

“This comes with the acceptance that at times, I may not have got it right for you, but my resolve to never stop learning and fighting on your behalf was what I enjoyed the most.”

Mr McCue said it was a “consolation” he was leaving a “strong, invigorated” team behind.

“The fight to ensure your rights are protected and you are supported in your workplace will continue,” he said.

“I leave knowing that the best people are in place, committed to carrying on this vital work.”