07 October 2022
The Northern Territory Police Association (NTPA) is concerned the safety of officers will be compromised following the ban of spit hoods on youth offenders in Watch Houses.
NTPA President, Paul McCue, said spit hoods are used as an option of last resort to protect our members, who have a right to a safe workplace.
“Spitting is a vile and disgusting act that can have potentially life-long impacts on our members' personal, professional and family life.
"Many of our members have said they would rather be punched in the face, than spat on.
“We are yet to be consulted on what Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) will be offered to our members and how it will impact on custody duties.
“We have previously said, in the absence of any suitable Work, Health and Safety alternative, spit hoods should not be removed at the stroke of a pen.
“Someone else’s bad behaviour should not be rewarded at the expense of the safety of police, who in the absence of an alternative, would be forced to use other defensive options to protect themselves,” said Mr McCue.
ENDS
Please direct all media enquiries to NTPA Communications Officer, Kyrrie Blenkinsop +61 (0) 499 017 654 or media@ntpa.com.au
The Northern Territory Police Association (NTPA) is the industrial voice of all members of the Northern Territory Police Force. Read more via www.ntpa.com.au or join us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/NTPoliceAssociation
