In a significant move toward institutional autonomy, Trinidad and Tobago’s Police Service Commission (PSC) has issued a formal demand for complete independence from parliamentary oversight in the appointment of its board members and senior police leadership. The recommendations, detailed in the PSC’s 2024 annual report presented to the House of Representatives in November, call for sweeping reforms to eliminate perceived political patronage.
The commission specifically advocates for removing the requirement for House of Representatives approval in appointing both PSC members and the Commissioner and Deputy Commissioners of Police. This structural change aims to bolster public confidence in the police force’s independence and enhance the commission’s supervisory capabilities.
Among the key proposals is extending the Commissioner of Police’s retirement age to 65 and removing the position from Section 75 of the Police Service Act, which currently grants the President authority to extend the service of senior officers beyond retirement age based on national interest considerations.
The PSC further recommends expanding its membership from five to seven individuals with fixed five-year terms, while seeking broader mandates including consultation rights on appointment criteria for top police positions and monitoring powers over Assistant Commissioners of Police.
To strengthen its selection processes, the commission seeks mandatory powers to compel organizations to provide information for security vetting of candidates. Additionally, the PSC requests full audit authority over police service performance, oversight of recruitment, promotion, disciplinary processes, and the establishment of conduct standards.
The report also highlights operational challenges, with PSC Chairman Dr. Wendell Wallace noting a 50% staffing shortage in the commission’s secretariat and expressing concern over one-third of staff lacking job security, with many employed on monthly contracts.