The IFP in the KwaZulu-Natal Legislature says as government has taken a decision to increase the danger allowance for police officers, it must also review their salaries.
Although a R700 danger allowance for police officers is not enough, the increase from R400 is warmly welcomed.
By increasing this danger allowance for police officers, it indicates that government does have money to spend. While we understand economic situation faced by our country, the IFP is concerned about the salaries paid to police officers. These officers face the mammoth – and dangerous – task of keeping citizens safe on a daily basis.
There is no excuse for not increasing police officers’ salaries while government has, on numerous occasions, spent billions of rands bailing out failed SOEs like ESKOM, SAA and the SABC.
Further, police officers must be provided with enough resources to perform their duties, including improving dilapidated police stations.
Failure to improve salaries for police officers could result in them being tempted to participate in criminal activities. Poor salaries could also discourage those who might be considering a career as police officers. Police salaries must be attractive, so that South Africans view joining the SAPS as a viable career.
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Contact
Mr Blessed Gwala MPL
IFP KZN Provincial Spokesperson for Community Safety and Liaison
078 290 5842
