Tolley should break silence on sole-charge stations

Police Minister Anne Tolley needs to take a stand on single-officer stations, says Labour’s Police spokesperson Kris Faafoi.

Under pressure this week the Minister accused the Opposition of politicking over its 2011 Election policy to increase staff levels at single-officer stations.

“Labour made a commitment at the last election to ensure there were two officers at sole-officer stations and we are standing by it.

“We weighed up the competing pressures and took a position; Anne Tolley should do the same.

“Labour’s policy is about safety for both police and for the small communities they serve around the country. Unfortunately over the holiday season we have seen what can happen when situations get volatile in these areas.

“Safety in numbers is one thing we can and should control.

“What is the Minister doing to support our officers in these areas? So far we’ve heard zip,” Kris Faafoi said.