13 Apr 2005

New Solomons Police Commissioner sworn in

10:22 am on 13 April 2005

The newly sworn in Police Commissioner for Solomon Islands Shane Castles says its irrelevant that he is Australian.

Speaking to the media after being sworn in by the Governor General Sir Nathaniel Waena at Government House, Commissioner Castles says he will serve Solomon Islands to the best of his ability.

"First and foremost my appointment as Commissioner is separate to RAMSI. I think that needs to be understood, and I think it needs to be communicated. Yes, I am an Australian, and proud to be so, but I am here to serve the Solomon Islands Police, I'm here to serve the community of the Solomons and I'm here to serve the Solomon Islands Government first and foremost."

Commissioner Castles takes up his official duties today.

He replaces William Morrell who served more than two years in the post.