Page 813 - Week 03 - Wednesday, 13 April 1994

ATTORNEY-GENERAL

LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY QUESTION

QUESTION NO 1170

Community Policing - Bega Flats

MR CORNWELL: To ask the Attorney General in relation to Bega Flats -

(1) How successful has the increased uniformed police presence, particularly the Bike Squad, been.

(2) What effect has it had.

(3) Will this presence be maintained; if not, why not?

MR CONNOLLY: The answer to Mr Cornwells question is as follows:

(1) The increased police presence in Bega Flats has been a successful

community policing project. Unfortunately, due to recording differences, it

is not possible to compare statistics for periods prior to and since the

increased police presence.

(2) Police relations with residents of Bega Flats have been enhanced through a

number of initiatives including a Community Policing Day which was

conducted in the Allawah, Bega and Currong Flats on 30 November 1993.

On the day police set up a caravan in the area and spoke with as many

residents as possible. Many people were enthusiastic about the style of

policing being adopted and were eager to assist police by offering advice

and providing information. Police also participated in the Clean Up

Australia Day at the Bega Flats. Many residents have made favourable

comments to police regarding the increased presence and some have made

direct contact with members of the Bicycle Squad to report incidents.

(3) Yes.

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