What is the Police (Civilian Oversight) Authority?

It's a body that has been set up to monitor the function and performance of the police force, and whenever necessary, refer matters to the Security Minister, the Police Services Commission and the Police Commissioner.

Why was it established?

The Constabulary Force Act that makes provisions for an inspectorate to monitor the performance of the police force and to determine whether it is operating effectively and efficiently has not had the desired effect. It was felt that a civilian body would be better suited for this job.

How many people make up the Police (Civilian Oversight) Authority, and how are they appointed?

The authority should have no more than seven and no less than five members at any given time. Two members of the authority should also be members of the Police Services Commission, one member should be an accountant and another member should be experienced in security services. The member with experience in the security services, however, cannot be a serving member of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF). The members are appointed by the Governor-General after consultation with the Prime Minister and the Leader of the Opposition. The Governor-General may also revoke the appointment of any member at any time after consultation.

How long will these members serve?

Five years. They, however, become eligible for reappointment when this time expires. Members may also resign at any time.

What powers does the Authority have?

The group may conduct inspections of the police force and also monitor the implementation of policy relating to the force. The Authority is mandated to monitor the police force's management of finances. In carrying out its duties, the authority may call for documents and records which it sees as relevant to its investigations. Members may at any reasonable time enter premises occupied by any division of the police force and ask any member of the force to provide information, documents and records desired by the authority.

If the review of documents reveal anything that the authority believes requires attention, it can refer the matter to the Security Minister, the Police Services Commission, the Police Commis-sioner or the Commission for the Prevention of Corruption.

How often will the members meet?

At least once per month for 10 months each year. The decisions taken at these meetings should be by a majority vote.

What's the downside to all of this?

Amnesty International, in a report released in May, argued that the work that the Police (Civilian Oversight) Authority could accomplish would be hindered by the fact that the law did not mandate the authority to play any major role in investigating alleged unlawful police killings.

All over the world, the term 'civilian oversight' refers to an independent civilian body that investigates complaints against the police.

Other interesting facts

Bishop of Montego Bay, the Most Reverend Charles Dufour, was appointed chairman of the Police (Civilian Oversight) Authority. The other members of the authority appointed so far are Dr. George Phillip, Oliver Clarke, Gladstone Lewars and Rudolph Hamilton. The appointments took effect on August 21.

The members of the authority will make a report to the Minister of National Security each financial year on their findings, and may also make recommendations for improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the police force.