Heads of the three disciplinary forces have identified challenges and suggested ways forward for departmental heads in Papua New Guinea to assist where they can.
These challenges include lack of uniforms, shortage of manpower and accommodation and pension for ex-servicemen and women.
These concerns were highlighted during the third Departmental Heads Meeting in Port Moresby, yesterday, which was attended by departmental heads from all governmental organizations.
It began with a parade led by the Royal Papua New Guinea Constabulary and the Correctional Services pipes and drums.
The meeting was for the heads of the three disciplinary forces to highlight issues they face, and seek help from respective government bodies.
For police, their focus was on the Police Modernisation Program and the training of personnel to properly execute their roles as law enforcers.
Under the program, the National Government has invested K269 million in developing the Police Training College, increase manpower and building accommodation for officers.
For the Correctional Services, the main focus was on the relocation of four prisons in the country.
They include Boram in East Sepik, Vanimo in West Sepik, Kavieng Correctional Centre in New Ireland and Lorengau Correctional Centre in Manus.
This is an important project for CS, and Commissioner Waipo has asked the provincial governments to help where they can.
For the Defence Force, the concern was on the lack of uniforms for soldiers looking after international border posts.
PNGDF Commander, Gilbert Toropo told departmental heads that the force is suffering from funding constraints, and soldiers at border posts are forced to protect the borders without uniforms. This, he says, can be risky at times.
In terms of beefing up border security, Commander Toropo announced that the government has invested K8 million in buying four aircrafts for the PNGDF.
The planes are currently being built in New Zealand and are expected to be complete come September.
