NT Police call for more protective equipment when responding to frontline duties amid coronavirus pandemic

POLICE serving on the frontline are concerned they haven’t been equipped with appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) when coming in close contact with the public amid the coronavirus pandemic.

NT Police Association president Paul McCue says police serving on the frontline are concerned they haven’t been equipped with appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) when coming in close contact with the public amid the coronavirus pandemic. Photo: Emma Murray

POLICE serving on the frontline are concerned they haven’t been equipped with appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) when coming in close contact with the public amid the coronavirus pandemic.

NT Police Association president Paul McCue said feedback from members showed there were issues across the nation where officers didn’t feel equipped in engaging with the community and possible virus carriers.

“Personal protective equipment is an issue nationwide for police officers. It appears this stems from a supply issue, and the NTPA is in discussions with the police department, daily, to provide updates to our members,” he said.

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“The association is concerned that members who are on the frontline of this health crisis have provided feedback stating they don’t feel they’re being adequately protected.

“This is why we are working each day to get answers on when suitable PPE will be distributed to all members.”

Mr McCue said the union’s focus was the safety of officers and called on the Government to ensure those on the frontline were protected.

“It is vitally important to have the appropriate equipment for our members at all times, and none more so than now, while they are on the frontline of a global pandemic,” he said.

“Whilst the cases in the Territory remain relatively low, the NT Government and Commissioner cannot be complacent on this issue, and we will continue to work with them to ensure this is not the case.”

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The NTPA has established a website for its members to access in relation to coronavirus and any concerns they may regarding the pandemic and their daily duties.