Unreasonable police bill for Cricket says PM

“LET’S BE REASONABLE.”

This is the plea of Prime Minister, Dr Ralph Gonsalves to police officers who recently provided security during this country’s hosting of five games of the International Cricket Council’s Men’s T20 World Cup. Speaking on NBC radio on Wednesday, October 16, 2024, Gonsalves disclosed that he has received a bill which is close to $800,000 for payment to police officers who worked during the ICC cricket matches at Arnos Vale.

The prime minister, who is also the Minister of National Security, revealed that there was a submission by the police to the Local Organizing Committee, and the government is being asked to pay the hefty bill.

“The numbers are unreasonable,” Dr Gonsalves argued.

He said Constables are to be paid $65 per hour, with higher ranking officers claiming up to $200 per hour.

He said the officers are billing for 15 and 20 hours work at this price, while they are still receiving their monthly salary from the government.

“I am not saying they must not get paid…but they have to send me something reasonable.”

The prime minister said he has had discussions on the matter with the Commissioner of Police, but the matter is yet to be resolved.

“I know what is submitted to me is unreasonable,” Gonsalves pointed out.

“How can you submit a bill that you worked 15 hours security, on a day when you are getting paid by the government?” he questioned.

Based on the bill sent to him, there are individuals who are due to collect over $20,000 for work done during the five matches of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.