THE Cheshire Police Federation – the staff association representing rank and file officers across the county – has praised the Cheshire Police Authority for its “brave decision” in deciding to increased its element of the council tax by 3.94 per cent.
Simon Roberts, chairman of the federation, said: “I would like to add my full support to the decision made by the Cheshire Police Authority in increasing the police element of the council tax by 3.94 per cent.
“We are only now beginning to realise the full impact of the 20 per cent reduction in the policing budget imposed on us by this Government. This decision means that although officer numbers will continue to decrease the rate of this decrease will not be as drastic.”
Yesterday, Margaret Ollerenshaw, chairman of the Police Authority, announced the 3.94 per cent rise, which equates to llp a week for the average Band D house in Cheshire.
Mr Roberts said: “The message I believe that this decision sends out is one we have been making for some time – enough is enough.
“Since the cuts were announced we have continually stated that they will have an effect on how we deliver policing in Cheshire in the future.
“In making this brave decision it is clearly something the Police Authority have considered. This decision is not about a short term fix for 12 months but about trying to safeguard policing in Cheshire for the years to come.
“I am personally aware of the political pressure that has been placed on this Police Authority to accept a freeze on council tax and accept a one year grant.
“It pleases me that they have resisted this temptation and made the more difficult but correct decision. We face uncertain times ahead with this Police Authority being replaced by a Police Commissioner.
“I hope that this person, whoever it may be, shows the same political independence as this Police Authority has in the future and does not look for the often easier short term fix.”
THE Cheshire Police Federation - the staff association representing rank
and file officers across the county - has praised the Cheshire Police
Authority for its "brave decision" in deciding to increased its element
of the council tax by 3.94 per cent.
Rank and file back police authority
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Gary Skentelbery
Experienced journalist for more than 40 years. Managing Director of magazine publishing group with three in-house titles and on-line daily newspaper for Warrington. Experienced writer, photographer, PR consultant and media expert having written for local, regional and national newspapers. Specialties: PR, media, social networking, photographer, networking, advertising, sales, media crisis management. Chair of Warrington Healthwatch Director Warrington Chamber of Commerce Patron Tim Parry Johnathan Ball Foundation for Peace. Trustee Warrington Disability Partnership. Former Chairman of Warrington Town FC.
