RPNGC REVIEWS HR POLICIES TO STRENGTHEN GOVERNANCE AND MEMBER WELFARE

THE Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary (RPNGC) Human Resource Division has reviewed 18 existing human resource policy areas and developed 8 new policies to strengthen governance and improve member welfare.

The week long HR Policy Review Workshop was held from Sept. 28 to Oct. 2 at the Hilton Hotel in Port Moresby, bringing together officers from various sections of the HR Division.

Senior Inspector Norman Amuki, Manager Personnel with the RPNGC Human Resource Division, said the review was necessary because many HR policies contained in the Constabulary Standing Orders had not been updated since 2014.

“The purpose of the HR Policy Review Workshop was to look at the current policies that we have and assess whether they are still relevant to the current practices within the organization,” Senior Inspector Amuki said.

He said new administrative practices had emerged over the years that were not reflected in existing policies, while some provisions in the Standing Orders were no longer being implemented.

“As an organization, it was important that we review the policies to ensure they are fair, accountable and aligned in strengthening HR governance through clear, fair and effective policies,” he said.

Amuki said continuing to operate under outdated policies could expose the Constabulary to legal and administrative risks.

The review covers HR matters from recruitment through to retirement. With eight new policies developed, the number of HR policies will increase from 18 to 26.

Five previously missing HR sections were also identified and incorporated into the organisational structure, with policies developed for each section.

Member welfare was a major focus, including allowances, insurance, leave entitlements, family support and medical welfare.

The review also considered improvements to life insurance coverage, support for spouses and dependants, and annual staff appraisals.

“We want every member to understand that they are eligible for annual appraisals and that there are clear procedures for everyone involved, from the top command down to the constable level,” Amuki said.

Medical welfare provisions affecting police personnel, spouses and dependent children were also reviewed, with recommendations aimed at strengthening support for police families.

The workshop recommendations will now be reviewed by section heads before the amended policies are consolidated into a draft document.

The draft will then be forwarded to the Policy and Planning Division for further consultation and refinement before being submitted to the Police Executive Committee.

Following consideration by the committee, the proposed policies will be presented to the Police Commissioner for approval and endorsement.

Once approved and signed, the revised policies will become part of the Constabulary Standing Orders.

Amuki encouraged police personnel nationwide to familiarise themselves with the policies and regulations governing their service.

“My message to every policeman and woman is to read and understand the Constabulary Standing Orders, the Police Act and the General Orders. Understand how these policies benefit you and guide your conduct. They help keep members on track and ensure they understand what is required of them,” he concludes.