Newtown School
Mein St
Newtown
Wellington
YOUTH EDUCATION OFFICERS
Mr Tom Law, Chair of Newtown School expressed concern at the proposals by the Wellington Police to once again target the
withdrawal of services that Police provide to local communities.
“We are told again and again that the way to enhance crime prevention is through education. It is unfortunate that the
Police find that they are put in a situation where the fence at the top of the cliff (crime prevention) is compromised,
said Mr Law.
While it is appreciated that the Police have a responsibility for traffic enforcement, and that they feel they must
concentrate on that area, the relationship that the police have with schools is important. Many programmes that schools
run may not involve the police directly, but their involvement in planning, training and support is essential. Newtown
School receives the support of the education officers in programmes including DARE, Kia Kaha, Keeping Ourselves Safe and
school patrol. To lessen the support may put the ongoing nature of these programmes in jeopardy.
As well as leading specific programmes, the Youth Education Officers, like the community constable, also develop a
relationship with children so that they (the children) develop a confidence in the police as they participate together
in various programmes.
At Newtown School, we hope that Wellington Police will continue to support schools with dedicated staff at the present
levels.
For more information call:
Tom Law For immediate release
Chairperson 21 July 2001
Phone 3898202
Mobile 025 2674879
ENDS