25 Jan 2017

Prendergast optimistic about Solomons future

4:51 pm on 25 January 2017

Solomon Islands outgoing police commissioner says he leaves the country optimistic about its future.

Solomon Islands Police Commissioner Frank Prendergast, (foreground).

Solomon Islands Police Commissioner Frank Prendergast, (foreground). Photo: RNZI/ Koroi Hawkins

Frank Prendergast, whose offical duties end today, took charge of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force in 2014, a tumultuous year for policing with massive floods in April and national elections in November.

Mr Prendergast said he took charge of a well trained police force that was hampered by a lack of unity at the executive level which he said was partly a result of it not having had a official police commissioner for 17 months prior to his arrival.

He said if he had achieved one thing it was bringing a team ethic and team ethos to the police management.

"I have to say I really appreciate the great support of not only the men and women in the RSIPF but also all the communities in the Solomon Islands. It has been a tremendous experience and I leave here with a lot of optimism and I leave here with a lot of optimism for the future of the Solomon Islands, " said Frank Prendergast.

Frank Prendergast's successor AFP assistant commissioner Matthew Varley was sworn in this morning and takes up his role on a leave of absence from the AFP.

Matthew Varley's appointment comes at an important time for Solomon Islands police with the departure of the Regional Assistance Mission to Solomon Islands in July after 14 years of development, security and policing support to the country.

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