New Recruits

New Parliamentary Secretary for Police Matt Brown with one of the rejoinees to the Lake Illawarra Local Area Command Kelvin OReilly

FRONT line police will be given tough powers if Matt Brown MP has his way as newly been appointed Parliamentary Secretary for Police.

According to Police Minister Carl Scully the role will see Mr Brown continue the state governments effort to ensure frontline police also receive equipment, resources and support.

Mr Scully said the appointment was recognition of Mr Browns great work in the community.

I know he will be a valuable asset in the police portfolio, he said.

Mr Brown said the offer of the new role came as pleasant surprise.

I didnt ask for it but I am honoured to accept it, he said.

He received the official letter signed by NSW Premier Morris Iemma stating his new appointment last week however said discussions have been underway for a number of weeks in regard to the appointment.

In his first engagement as Parliamentary Secretary for Police Mr Brown visited Warilla Police Station this week.

The Lake Illawarra Command received a boost to its ranks with two experienced officers rejoining the force. This comes on top of the six probationary constables who started work in the command after graduating from the Police Training College at Goulburn last month.

Mr Brown said the government has been actively recruiting former police officers who want to resume a career with NSW Police since March 2003.

Rejoinees add to the depth of experience in our police ranks and complement the addition of hundreds of new recruits each year, he said, he said.

Rejoinees must complete a short readmission course before being assigned to their new posting.

Mr Brown said the officers could set an example for young constables in terms of dedication and integrity.

They will continue the great work of the Lake Illawarra police in fighting crime in our community and bring a wealth of policing experience that can only benefit the people of the Lake Illawarra area, he said.