HOME Affairs Minister, Mr. Ronald Gajraj yesterday called on trainees of the Felix Austin Police College to serve the Guyana Police Force with zeal and enthusiasm and to not be daunted by abuses meted out to them by members of the public during the execution of their duties.

The minister, addressing the gathering at the college's annual Christmas luncheon for trainees, also pointed out that they have a responsibility both to the Force and public and their reaction to the attitudes of members of the public will reflect on the Force.

He noted that the uniform worn represents the entire Force and in most cases it is the bad that officers do by which people judge the Force.

The luncheon was held at the Police Officers' Mess, Eve Leary and trainees in what was considered the largest batch, were treated to a number of songs by some of their colleagues.

Congratulating the trainees for their efforts and contributions in the training programme, Gajraj urged that they conduct themselves in a manner which their colleagues would respect and emulate, of which the Force will be proud and the country will recognise.

He charged that they strive to equal the performance of past members of the Force who have made recognisable contributions during their service and to be guided by those worthy of emulation.

Gajraj further expressed hope that the exposure gained in the initial training at the college will help the trainees to see things in a different perspective and aid them in their duties as law enforcement officers.

He said training is offered at different levels of the Force and urged them to make use of such opportunities when they arise.

Also addressing the gathering was Police Commissioner, Mr. Floyd McDonald who reiterated that as members of the Force, the trainees will have a responsibility to the public.

He informed them that they have chosen to join a very important institution and will be required to execute their duties with diligence and professionalism.

"You must see yourselves as servants of the public and perform to forge better partnership with it", McDonald stated.

He, however, pointed out that while they are a part of society, officers must not put themselves in a position to compromise their integrity.

Trainees were further urged to comply with the regulations that govern the institution and grasp the opportunities offered to develop themselves professionally and academically.