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Police Minister Paul Henderson today announced that funding for the Government’s promised Police Beats had been brought forward and was available to Police this financial year.

 

Mr Henderson said the Government had committed $12.3 million at the last election to establish the Police Beats over this term in office.

 

“Today I can announce that the funding commitment will be brought forward to accelerate the establishment of the Police Beats,” Mr Henderson said.

 

“This will allow Police to establish the Police Beats in 2009/10 or as soon as possible after that.

 

“Police Beats increase police presence and visibility in local communities and help cut down on crime and anti-social behaviour.

 

“They also provide a sense of confidence and safety for locals, shoppers and retailers.”

 

Mr Henderson today visited the site of the new Police Beat at Nightcliff Police Station, which is currently being fitted out.

 

“A dedicated additional four police officers and two auxiliaries have been funded by the Government to staff the Police Beat,” he said.

 

“Nightcliff Station has been home to specialist police units such as traffic for some time and has not been home to general duties police for some years.

 

“The Police Beat will ensure an increased police presence - including foot patrols - around Nightcliff shopping precinct.”

 

Member for Nightcliff Jane Aagaard welcomed the Police Beat.

 

“Business owners and constituents have been working with me on this issue for some time and I’m sure they will welcome this announcement.”

 

The Casuarina and Alice Springs Police Beats are already operational.  The Police Beat at Palmerston is on track to be established this year. Work is underway to establish the Karama and Parap Police Beats in 2009/10 or as soon as possible after that.     

 

Separate to today’s announcement, the Government has said it will work with the Katherine community and the Police to explore the possibility of establishing a Police Beat in that town.

  

Media contact: Geoff Fraser 0407 360 256