Police Act Review – News Release

4 December 2006

Alcohol and drug testing considered

Alcohol and drug testing, vetting systems and the idea of a common oath of service are among the topics explored in the eighth and final issues paper produced by the Police Act Review team.

Processes for dealing with poor performance or misconduct, and integrity testing programmes are also examined in the Conduct and Integrity paper - part of the government's ongoing review of the Police Act 1958.

Police Act Review Project Manager, Superintendent Hamish McCardle, says the eighth and final issues paper promotes discussion on a range of issues which relate to encouraging high standards of ethics, conduct and integrity for all police staff.

"Policing relies heavily on public trust, and this trust can either be upheld or eroded by staff conduct, honesty and integrity."

Issues Paper 8: Conduct and Integrity addresses the following discussion points:

Pre- and post-employment vetting.
The possibility of unifying police employees under a common oath of service.
A Code of Conduct (sometimes called a Code of Ethics) for all Police staff.
Protocols to ensure the political neutrality of Police employees.
Processes for dealing with any cases of poor performance or misconduct, including remedial options which are available to the Commissioner of Police.
Specific ways to promote ethical behaviour by Police staff, for example possible integrity testing programmes and initiatives designed to safeguard against on-the-job impairment from alcohol and other drug use.


Copies of the full document can be downloaded from the 'Consultation' section of www.policeact.govt.nz Printed copies are available on request from the Police Act Review Team, c/- Police National Headquarters, PO Box 3017, Wellington.

Responses to Issues Paper 8 are sought by 31 January 2007 and can be made using an online form on the Police Act website; by fax to (04) 474 2342; or by post to the Police Act Review Team [at the address provided above].

ENDS

For further information contact Hamish McCardle ph (021) 483 467.