THE retirement package offered to police officers may not allow them the privileges of going on tours and cruises, but yesterday a senior retired police officer said he hoped this will change for future retirees.

"The reward system in the service must change. This is the problem," retired assistant commissioner of police Peter John said.

He made the comment as he spoke at the retirement function of ACP John King held at the Police Administration Building in San Fernando.

He said, "When we see the new levels at the executive level, they are the ones who can go on tours and cruises."

John said, "I wish that those who retire after us will not have to wonder about that trip."

Recently-appointed foreigners, Dwayne Gibbs and Jack Ewatski, are to receive hefty payments during their tenures as Commissioner of Police and Deputy Commissioner respectively.

Gibbs will be paid US$205,000 per annum and Ewatski Can$200,000 per annum under a three-year contract for the respective posts.

The hefty salaries for the duo were major talking points, especially with the Police Social and Welfare Division, which is still trying to negotiate better wages for officers.

King spent 39 years in the service and last served in the Southern Division.

Yesterday, he reminded officers, "The police officer was created for service to the public, service to humanity and service to one another."

He said this may not always be done.

"Sometimes we move away from that and that should not be. You must serve with a listening ear," King said.

Glowing remarks were made about King by his colleagues, including ASP Clarence Boodram and Senior Sup Errol Denoon.

"ASP King gave selflessly. To give 39 years of your life to an organisation is admirable. People do not hold on to loyalty like that anymore, its quite an accomplishment," Denoon said.

Deputy Commissioner of Police Maurice Piggott also attended the function. He told First Division officers to prepare for retirement, as it could be a very traumatic experience.