In a new report, Karen McConnell praised the establishment of the Police Authority in Jersey four years ago but has made a number of recommendations on how governance of the States police could be further improved.
The report says that further steps that could enhance the ‘accountability and operational independence’ of the force include strengthening the resources of the Police Authority, developing the skills and capacity of its members and clarifying its responsibilities.
Ms McConnell also proposes that the force commits to routine independent inspections to ensure it is ‘held to account’ and to drive improvements. ‘The changes I have proposed are important to enhance effective oversight and scrutiny of the police service whilst at the same time protecting its operational independence,’ she said. ‘I have found all parties to be very open to change and supportive of the recommendations I am making. I look forward to seeing real progress.’
She added: ‘I also welcome the recent announcement of an independent inspection of the States police to be undertaken by Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabularies and Fire and Rescue Services. Independent inspection is an important mechanism for driving accountability and improvement. I have recommended that inspections are routinely undertaken going forward.’
