These were the parting words of the Commissioner of Corrections, Commander Francis Kean to the 88 officers who were promoted during the final Commissioner’s Parade for 2017 at the Naboro Complex on Thursday, 21 December, 17.
“The expectations from those above you and below will be high for you to perform your duties diligently and honestly at all times and every time.
“Our roles for Security and Safety and Through Care, of the men and women under our care is paramount.
These were the parting words of the Commissioner of Corrections, Commander Francis Kean to the 88 officers who were promoted during the final Commissioner’s Parade for 2017 at the Naboro Complex on Thursday, 21 December, 17.
“You must not give an opportunity or laxity and negligence creeping into the performance of our daily work, it’s very important that you remain focused and that you remain true, and that you remain honest in the delivery of correctional services.
The hard line by Commander Kean was in response to the two cases of collusion experienced in the institutions in the recent week.
“The two collusion cases in the past week – one in Nadi and the other at Naboro – has tarnished the image of the institution,’’ Commander Kean said.
In one case, money was promised to an officer but only a small portion paid out to him then promised while in another case a mobile phone was passed on to an inmate.
The officers’ involved in both cases have since lost their jobs and are now in the hands of the Police.
Commander Kean said to collude with inmates was dangerous because it put them in a position of advantage if their demands were not met.
“They can report you if their demands are not met,” he adds.
He added that those in positions of leadership must always attend to the welfare of their men and women. “This is very important – it is not an easy job being an officer.”
He mentioned that their role was 3-pronged – one to those under their care, one to the men and women under their supervision, and the delivery of services to the Government and citizens of our country.
“I want to take this opportunity to thank all of you, I have been to the North, I have been to the West thanking the officers for the work you have undertaken throughout the last 11 months and in our financial year of the last 6 months.
“It is a good time for us to stand still and take stock of our performance individually and as an organization to identify the gaps that need to be plugged, to identify the weaknesses that need to be strengthened.”
Cmdre Kean also reminded all of the sermon delivered by Chaplain Rev. Josefa Tikonatabua at the family church service – to always remember your families.
“This is the time to be still, and spend quality time with your family during this festive season. Our families should always be at the forefront of whatever we do.”
