Delays in bulletproof vests deepen frustration as PWA raises concern over unpaid insurance
CASTRIES, St Lucia — The Police Welfare Association (PWA) is pressing the government to address long-standing delays in insurance payments and the provision of protective equipment, warning that the issues are placing both the financial security and safety of officers at risk.
PWA President Cameron Laure spoke publicly about the matter following the Association’s recent agreement with the government for a 13 percent salary increase, along with additional benefits for the upcoming double triennium. Laure stressed that despite progress on wages, unresolved concerns continue to undermine the welfare of police officers.
Insurance arrears near $600,000
Speaking on the News Spin program, Cameron Laure underscored the importance of the PWA’s accident and death benefit plan, which provides $75,000 for medical expenses in case of accidents and a lump sum payment to families if an officer dies in the line of duty.
“This plan has proven invaluable to officers and their families,” Laure said. However, he revealed that payments to the insurer have been inconsistent, leaving the Association nearly $600,000 in arrears.
He credited the relationship between the PWA and the insurance company for preventing the cancellation of the plan but cautioned that many families have been waiting for overdue benefits since last year.
“This is very concerning,” he said, emphasizing that the Ministry of National Security is obligated to ensure monthly payments are made. “This money is not a favor. It was negotiated and belongs to the police officers. It cannot be withheld, not even for a month.”
Promised bulletproof vests still pending
Cameron Laure also raised frustration over the delayed rollout of bulletproof vests, which had been promised during negotiations that began in October 2023. As part of those talks, the PWA agreed to forgo a proposed $1,000 risk allowance in exchange for safety measures, including bulletproof vests and non-lethal tools for apprehending offenders.
Although the collective agreement was signed on September 15, the accompanying Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) guaranteeing vests has yet to be finalized. According to Laure, the government’s representative refused to sign the MOU, arguing that it did not reflect the executive’s instructions.
“This has stalled the process. The Royal Saint Lucia Police Force Officers have not received their allowances for the month, and frustration is growing within the membership,” Laure said. “We are asking that good sense prevail so the document can be signed and we can move forward.”
Call for urgent resolution
Laure reiterated the need for immediate action to secure both benefits and protective equipment for police officers.
“We cannot risk losing this insurance plan. Families depend on it. At the same time, the bulletproof vests that were promised must be delivered without further delay,” he stated.
The PWA’s appeal highlights continuing administrative challenges that affect the welfare and operational safety of the Royal Saint Lucia Police Force, even as officers grapple with mounting responsibilities in the fight against crime.
Stay with Unitedpac St Lucia News for ongoing coverage as the PWA raises concerns over unpaid insurance and the safety of local police officers.
