Date: 24/02/2003
Source: South African Police Service (SAPS)
Title: Max: Launch of internal SAPS survey in Western Cape


STATEMENT BY THE PROVINCIAL POLICE COMMISSIONER, LENNIT MAX, AT THE LAUNCH OF INTERNAL SAPS SURVEY, Western Cape, 24 February 2003

Just as the exit poll provided us valuable insights into the external perceptions of the South African Police Service in the Western Cape, so it is also vital that management have an accurate picture of the internal climate within the organisation.

Indeed there can be no talk of effective service delivery unless internally, the organisation is healthy, and our members are equipped to handle the numerous challenges of modern-day policing with confidence and commitment.

It is no secret that the greatest asset of the South African Police Service is its human resources. For what good is a patrol vehicle without a driver? A radio without a voice at the other end?

All the closed circuit television cameras in the world are not worth one trained and motivated police officer to respond to what they detect.

In short, policing is a people-driven business. But no officer is positive and motivated unless their morale is high; they are secure in their position, and assured that their interests are being looked after.

I believe the Internal Climate Poll will co-inside well with our Service Delivery Improvement Programme (or SDIP) and give us a clear indication of the internal focus areas which have to be addressed as a matter of priority.

KPMG and Roots, who are to be responsible for the project, are totally independent bodies and are under no obligation to the management team of the Western Cape.

I therefore want to take this opportunity to encourage all members and officers in the Western Cape to offer their full co-operation in the poll and to respond honestly to whatever issue is placed before them. I underline the words of Minister Ramatlakane - SAY YOUR SAY.

I also wish to add my assurances that the information will be treated in the strictest confidence. There will be no harassment and in no way will it be used to the detriment of any member.

The results of this poll can only lead to an improvement in the internal climate of our organisation.

But for this to be realised, the co-operation and honesty of everyone involved will be vital.

On behalf of the management of the Western Cape, I wish to pledge my support to the poll and offer my firm assurance that we are fully committed to addressing the issues raised in therein, and bringing about visible improvement in the relevant focus areas.

Naturally some issues will be more easily addressed than others, and certain aspects will have to form the subject of more long-term strategies.

It is therefore difficult to make specific promises at this stage, as certain issues may be the result of collective and individual attitudes.

I nevertheless offer my assurance that we shall be a committed partner in this endeavour.

Lastly, allow me to offer my sincere thanks to everyone who has had a hand in initiating the poll.

I too am exited to hear what our members have to say. I therefore look forward to the results, and the positive contribution I am sure they will make to the South African Police Service in the Western Cape.

Issued by South African Police Service (SAPS)
24 February 2003