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The Portfolio Committee on Police has welcomed the official tabling of the White Paper on Police in Parliament by the Minister of Police today.

The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee, Mr Francois Beukman, said it was vital that proper public discourse takes place on the content of the White Paper.

“The White Paper is an important document to ensure that the vision of a professional police service is realised. The implementation of the recommendations of the National Development Plan needs the urgent attention of all role players in the sector,” said Mr Beukman.

In this regard, the Committee will request the Civilian Secretariat for Police to brief the Committee on the White Paper and also on the White Paper on Safety and Security on Wednesday, 08 March 2017.

Mr Beukman added that it was imperative for the South African Police Service (SAPS) to commit to the principles of good governance and citizen participation in the creation of safer communities, as envisaged in the White Paper.

The Committee further believes that the confidence of the public in the police should not be eroded by unprofessional conduct or undisciplined action. “There is a widening consensus that the public demands a police service that is accountable, has integrity, accommodates diversity and adheres to the principles of human rights, a police service that is community centred. Anything less would not be acceptable,” added Mr Beukman.

The Committee is of the opinion that the much-needed review of the SAPS Act of 1995 cannot be delayed any longer. As such, the Committee will push for this matter to be expedited as a matter of priority.

Issued by Parliamenatry Communications Services on behalf of the Portfolio Committee on Police, Mr Franscois Beukman