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The President of the Republic greeted policemen

11.11.2006

In the words of President Toomas Hendrik Ilves, who spoke today in Jõhvi Concert Hall on the occasion of the 88th anniversary of the Estonian police, he was ''pleased and feeling proud'' that according to the latest survey of public opinion 70 percent of respondents had confidence in the Estonian police. ''People have to have confidence in their police,'' the Head of State said.

President Ilves said that the profession of policeman required commitment and consideration for others.

''I understand that you also expect the state to have more consideration towards police. I know that your salaries are low and many among you have had thoughts of quitting the job. And that at present it sounds like a fairy tale when 95 years old Heino Juudas recollects that when he entered the police school in 1935 there were 400 applicants and only 40 were accepted,'' the President said. ''But you have to hold on, do not write your resignation letter yet. The salaries are supposed to be raised a little. But there is something else that cannot be measured in terms of money. This is a friendly pat on the shoulder and a few words: ''Good job!'' or ''Well done!'' We should not be stingy in giving recognition to your work. You deserve being recognised.''

The President wished the policemen every success and the people close to them to be understanding and patient.

Public Relations Department of the Office of the President
Kadriorg, November 11, 2006