Manx police are the latest to respond to the query from the Celtic League about cultural commitment to the community they serve. Celtic League General Secretary, Rhisiart Tal-e-bot, has now had responses from Police Services in Wales, Scotland and Mann. Most of the feedback particularly that from Wales has been extremely positive.

The response framed by Deputy Chief Constable, Gary Roberts, seems contradictory in parts but presents an interesting perspective (see below):

"28th February 2008

Chief Constables Office Police Head Quarters Douglas Isle of Man IM2 4RG

Dear Mr Tal-e-bot

Isle of Man Constabulary: Manx Language and Cultural Commitment

I write further to your letter of 4th February 2008 concerning the Constabulary's approach to the culture and heritage of the island. In doing so, I would stress that the Constabulary is deeply proud of its strong and distinctive community links, which are the product of many years of effort.

There is a danger that simply adopting symbols or using language in an inappropriate way can be seen as a gesture, or even a gimmick. I do not see any place for such things in the Isle of Man Constabulary.

However the Chief Constable and I are instead determined that all recruitment to the Constabulary for at least the next five years will be solely from within the island. In the past considerable numbers of officers have been imported from the United Kingdom. This approach, whilst understandable, does not help to embed the Constabulary within the community. Furthermore, a staff development strategy should help ensure that all ranks within the Constabulary are occupied by locally developed officers within a reasonably short period of time.

You make mention of the possibility of this Constabulary adopting its own distinctive uniform. I consider that the Constabulary already possesses a unique feature: the white helmet. A recent review of our uniform was built around preserving this iconic feature. As police services in the UK are adopting new, functional uniforms based around black polo shirts or tee-shirts, it is important to note that the Constabulary has no intention of following suit.

You also touch upon our distinctive badge. Actually we have three distinctive badges: a helmet plate, a badge for flat caps and a special cap badge for senior officers. This last badge is so distinctive that it is a collectors item within the world of badge collecting.

I can see the merits in using a Manx word for police on the sides of vehicles. Indeed, you will see such a phrase on this letterhead. However at the present time I do not have any plans to change things.

Yours sincerely

Gary Roberts Deputy Chief Constable"

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J B Moffatt Director of Information Celtic League

18/03/08

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