The Cowra branch of the Police Association of NSW will meet on Tuesday to vote on whether to accept an offer they have received from NSW Police in response to the branch’s submission calling for extra staff.
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Chair for the Cowra branch Senior Constable Andrew Buchtmann revealed on Monday afternoon that they have received an offer from Regional Commander Superintendent Paul McDonald following last Tuesday’s community campaign launch.
Mr Buchtmann didn’t reveal details of the offer, however the branch is expected to respond on Tuesday afternoon.
The association is calling for four additional constables and one sergeant.
Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke last week said Cowra Police have her full support, after Shooters Fishers and Farmers party spokesperson Matthew Stadtmiller called on her to “send a strong message” regarding the staffing issue to police minister Troy Grant.
Mr Stadtmiller spoke to media outside Cowra Police Station last week.
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“The National Party went on a platform of “Vote Nats for more police”. A lot of people put their faith in the National Party and voted Nats and got less police,” Mr Stadtmiller said.
“It’s time that the local member picked up the phone…. and sends a strong message that the Cowra Police Station needs more resources and more officers.”
Ms Cooke said, since becoming aware of the issue, she’s had regular talks with the police minister, regional commander superintendent Paul McDonald and deputy commissioner Gary Worboys.
She said any suggestion she’s done nothing is “misleading and pure political opportunism”.
Police Commissioner Mick Fuller, according to Ms Cooke, is putting together a plan to determine the number of officers NSW needs for the future including duty types and where they’re based.
She said this process takes time.
“I appreciate the Police Association’s frustration and have made my position clear,” Ms Cooke said.
“All involved are aware of my strong support for the police in Cowra. I am as keen as anybody to ensure a resolution to this situation for the benefit of Cowra Police and the Cowra and district community.”
A submission calling for more staff attached to Cowra was presented to NSW Police hierarchy in April requesting a response within four weeks.