Descartes-Pelius’ appointment, the Prime Minister says, will be a transition period where senior officers undergo a series of leadership training to better equip them to manage the reins of the RSLPF. This training, Pierre adds, is crucial to ensure smooth transitions between commissioners in the future.

 “Mrs. Pelius is the new commissioner for one year to allow us time to usher in new leadership. There is a need for more training and, a need to usher in new leadership. Mrs Pelius is there to to bring that in,” the Prime Minister explained in a press briefing on Monday, September 4th, 2023. Making light of the fact that funds were not allocated for the RSLPF’s training vote, Pierre says this training is necessary. He says he is certain this will bridge gaps in officers’ competencies. “The training vote was zero - nothing, not a cent. There was no succession planning. We have very capable officers, but we needed some time to better train them. In fact, we’ve written to some friendly governments to get assistance [in that regard].”

 The Prime Minister says he will not cast aspersions against former Prime Ministers for the current crime situation. He says all leaders do their best to address the crime situation that the island faces. “I think the former Prime Minister tried, as do all Prime Ministers. Of course, he tried. Kenny [Anthony] tried. Why would a Prime Minister want crime in their country?” Pierre says. “What I will never say is “Chastanet could not but I can”. I will do my best to put the resources in place so the police can do what they must.”

 Pierre says his administration will continue delivering additional resources to the RSLPF to aid them in their fight against crime. Thirty additional vehicles have been sourced for the police, as well as the renovation of police stations across the island.