14 August 2023
The Northern Territory Police Association (NTPA) says it’s unbelievable that a Government Minister is publicly encouraging the community to call police – who are critically understaffed and stretched beyond breaking point – whenever they see youths out on the street.
NTPA President Nathan Finn said Member for Karama, Minister Ngaree Ah Kit has shown her ignorance of police powers and responsibilities, and has failed to acknowledge the ongoing pressures on our frontline due to escalating crime and poor government policies.
When asked on Mix 104.9, on Friday 11 August 2023, what people should do if they see “kids that are on the streets in the early hours of the morning”, the Minister replied:
“Please call the police. If you can’t through, through 131 444 then you can do an online report it’s through the website it’s very quick. You’ll get asked to enter your email address, you’ll then get a reference or a PROMIS number and if you share that with your local member in your local area – me in this instance – I can follow it up with the Superintendent first thing, and because it’s children I would also go to Minister Worden”.
“The biggest issue is, this Government wants police to be everything for everyone and the reality is, we don’t have the numbers to cope with day-to-day demands – let alone be a taxi service for youths out on the street in the middle of the night.
“We need more police, it’s that simple. Unless youths are committing a crime, they’re not a police responsibility – this a child protection issue.
“Territory Families operates a 24/7 child protection reporting hotline 1800 700 250 – this is the number the public should be calling.
“It’s little wonder 96.7 percent of officers who responded to the NTPA’s February ballot said they don’t feel supported by the NT Government, and 97.6 percent say there aren’t enough police to do the jobs expected of them,” said Mr Finn.
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
