That was the Year that was

As we bid farewell to 2009 the headlines would suggest it passed by in an instant. In the early part of the year the notion of a single Police Force for Scotland was being aired by several Chief Officers, both past and present and lo and behold as we near the end of the year the self same individuals have raised the notion once again.

It is becoming abundantly clear to some people, well me at least, that a certain Mr House quite fancies the title of Chief Constable of Scotland and he will continue to talk of elephants in the room until this particular debate gathers, or maybe loses momentum.

It was good to see that, in the case of repeat offences in drunk driving, we now has a deterrent that fits the crime. In very recent days a court in the Lothians area seized the car of a repeat offender thus making it considerably harder for him to continue to reoffend. Years ago drunk driving was regarded as being a risk worth taking and a number of hard hitting campaigns worked to identify driving whilst drunk for the scourge that it is. In recent times that impact was showing signs of slippage but this most recent change in policy has brought renewed focus. Each and every agency involved should pat themselves on the back for a job well done.

This blog identified and highlighted the problems, both financial and logistical, involved in the policing of Orange parades and similar events. It was good to witness the extremely similar opinions being viewed by senior Police officers in the following months as they strive to reduce the numbers of parades and indeed consider the aspect of billing the organisers.

The highlight of the year was the 1000 additional officers coming into being. As a law abiding, tax paying, member of the public this was good news indeed. The high associated with this political promise being met is equalled only by the extreme low, concern and disappointment with the news of reduced budgets and potential cuts within the Police Service. There is no doubt that the public deserve better.

2009 will be remembered for some great comedy productions with many of the nation's best known comedians producing books, dvds and videos of some of their best work. My personal favourite was the novel about how to ride a pedal cycle safely brought out by a Monty Python tribute act also known as ACPO. This was an epic production of Norwegian Parrot proportions but appeared to be overlooked at the recent British Comedy Awards. I am in no doubt that it would have done so much better if it had been produced in (plain) English.

In signing off for the year I promise to keep a watchful eye on the Police Service in 2010. We will have a General Election at some point and there may be a change in government. All I ask of whosoever wins is that they provide for a proper police service. I will be watching.

Note: The views expressed in The Station Blog are written by neither a Federation representative nor an employee and are not necessarily those of the Joint Central Committee of the Scottish Police Federation.  If you want to comment on the content please email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it