For the first time, in over four decades, the Royal Anguilla Police Force has an expatriate Commissioner in the person of Mrs. Amanda Stewart, who comes from Northern Ireland with over thirty years of experience.
She formally assumed her appointment on Saturday, July 11, in succession to former Commissioner, Mr. Rudolph Proctor, who demitted office the day before, July 10. He served for a total of just over thirty-two years in various ranks of the Force, including five years as Commissioner.
Mrs. Stewart, who is joined in Anguilla by her husband, Mr. Donald Stewart, served in the Royal Ulster Constabulary and, most recently, in the Northern Ireland Police Service. She has extensive experience in community policing and has placed strong emphasis on the professional development of police officers under her command. Her appointment in Anguilla was announced on April 13 by Governor Christina Scott after consultation with the Police Services Commission, the Chief Minister and the Leader of the Opposition.
The new Commissioner was sworn in by Acting Governor, Mr. Stanley Reid. Following that, she signed the takeover certificate; was presented with the ceremonial command sword by Mr. Proctor; inspected a Guard of Honour and the Police Community Band; and delivered her first address.
She said it was an honour and privilege to be appointed Commissioner of Police. She looked forward to the challenge and pledged to work with the members of the Force and the Anguillian community with 100 percent commitment. “The vision of the Police Force is to help make Anguilla safer and the motto states that the Police are committed to serve and protect. These are very important statements which I ensure I will adhere to at all times,” Commissioner Stewart stated.
“I have just completed thirty years of policing in Northern Ireland and have faced some massive challenges including command roles in some of the most difficult policing areas of the province – and six months secondment in Iraq. There is no doubt that policing can be extremely challenging, but I have never lost sight of the basic principles of policing which are protecting life, preventing crime and bringing offenders to justice.”
She continued: “The Police cannot perform their role alone. They require the help and cooperation of the community. I undertake to consult and engage with as many members of the Anguillian community as I can to identify issues of concern; provide solutions to reduce crime and improve confidence in policing on this island. I will provide the necessary strategic direction and leadership, but will also mentor and empower the officers under my command to think for themselves and make decisions based on their professional knowledge and experience.
“I am a firm believer in delivering fair and equitable policing service to all, and place a huge emphasis on values and ethical standards. To this end, I will ensure that all members of the community are treated with courtesy, fairness and respect. I would also ask that the Anguillian community also afford this respect to members of the Police Force.”
The Commissioner added: “I want to make mention of the rising levels of violent crime and burglaries on the island. These are the sorts of crime that cause fear among communities and could adversely affect the image of this island. I appeal to anyone with knowledge about any crime to come to the Police and to work together with the Police Force to keep people safe.”
Speaking earlier, and after inspecting the Police Guard of Honour, Mr. Proctor said his tenure in the Force had certainly been exciting, testing and rewarding. He was grateful to Permanent Secretaries, Heads of Departments, other public service officers, including officers of the Force, for their assistance during the past five years.
Referring to the installation of Mrs. Stewart, as his successor, he said: “Let me be the first Anguillian to thank her for taking the bold step to accept the job, and secondly welcome her to our little unique island and people. As I know too well, in this society, we often look for the small things to be critical about – but in the business of policing there are serious issues that she will need all the support she can get. I therefore urge you, the public, to be supportive of the Force, and Mrs. Stewart and her management team, as they work to make all of us safe in this little island.”
Addressing members of the Force, the former Commissioner advised: “You must work to improve your standard of service. If you lower your standards the criminals will take advantage of it. There is no doubt that some of you would have to change your attitude and remove those negative thoughts that you have of others, including your colleagues.”
Speaking in general, he added: “I leave behind an organisation that is professional and a service that is noble. This profession has changed my life, and made me the man I am today. To the good friends I leave behind: I will surely miss you and the memories we shared. But you will always be in my thoughts and prayers.
“To all Anguillians: I came; I served; now I am going home. This is it. Policing for me ends here. I now take my place in history as the 7th Anguillian to have served in this position. Thank you for this opportunity and may God bless you and bless Anguilla.”
