 |
|
|
|
|
 |
|
Relationship impresses Netherlands
visitor
The relationship between Mäori and police has left a lasting impression
on a senior member of the Netherlands Police who recently returned
home from an eight-week study tour.
Albert
van de Wetering is the Chief of the Department for Organised Crime in
the Brabant North Region of the Netherlands.
He visited New Zealand in September/October as part of a two-year
Management Development Programme within his police force, which includes
completing a Master of Public Administration qualification.
During his stay, Albert had the chance to sit in on a performance
management meeting in Hamilton and was surprised to find an Iwi leader
there too.
“After the meeting I spoke with him and asked him why he
was there,” says
Albert.
“He told me that ‘police don’t talk to us about the problems,
they talk with us’.
“I believe this is a key issue for the future of New Zealand
Police and the way safer communities can work at all levels of the
community,” says
Albert. “It does make a difference. It’s amazing to see
how simple it is to use the strength of communities and ask them
what they need of police.”
Albert enjoyed seeing Mäori protocol in action at the RNZPC
during a welcome for new recruits and at the 29 September Remembrance
Service.
He also went out with Waikato District Iwi Liaison Officer, Sergeant
Wayne Panapa, to gain an insight into interactions with Mäori
and the wider community.
At the conclusion of his visit, Albert made recommendations to the
Commissioner based on his observations of safer communities initiatives.
He shared his knowledge and experience on topics ranging from armoured
vests to forensics, and also took home many ideas for potential application
in the Netherlands Police.
| |
|
|
|
|
|
|
