THE Home Affairs Minister has described volunteers employed by the Isle of Man Constabulary as a "significant contribution" to the efficiency of the police force.

A total of 66 volunteers are employed to undertake administrative work so that police officers can spend more time on frontline duties.

This is up from the 40 recruited in 2006 and 2008.

 
Minister Earnshaw said: "Volunteers are not put on frontline operations. They work with officers and support staff by assisting with the administrative burden and record keeping, necessary in a modern police force, that enables our police officers to spend more time on frontline duties."

"This is not policing on the cheap but administration at no cost to the taxpayer. We are fortunate that volunteers have the skills and the time to make a difference. They are a real asset to the community and along with special constables give their time either directly or indirectly to help keep people safe."

Volunteers assist regular staff across a number of different areas such as clerical support in Neighborhood Policing Teams, Roads Policing Unit, analytical assistance in Neighborhood Support Teams (CID), and general administration in all support departments including Human Resources, registry and records.

Work is already being undertaken to use the new volunteers in areas such as the Public Protection Unit, Scientific Support Unit and Analysts Department.

Superintendent Paul Cubbon, who co-ordinates the volunteer workforce, said: "Hours vary depending on people's personal circumstances. Some volunteers give us a couple of hours per week - others do not far off a 40 hour week.

"In the latest intake we looked for specialist skills particularly analytical skills and IT and I think every department is now benefiting from the assistance of a volunteer."

Minister Earnshaw concluded: "The Department is grateful to the public's enthusiasm and willingness to give their time to support the work of our police."