The Commissioner made the point while speaking at the opening of the Regional Security System/SVG Coast Guard Basic seamanship Course which was held at the Coast Guard Base at Calliaqua earlier today.

Pompey noted that during the last decade the region has witnessed the emergence of some modern-day concepts such as globalization, single economic space, and free movement of goods and Capital to name a few.

With these new concepts being introduced, the commissioner noted that there are corresponding new challenges. This being the case, he says it is therefore obvious that the duties of law enforcement officers and more specifically marine police officers, are no longer confined to search and rescue and prevention of pollution or contraband consumer goods.

Pompey stressed that there is a need for an integrated approach in fighting these non-traditional challenges and threats and greater regional and extra-regional co-operation, collaboration, planning and information and intelligence gathering.

The commissioner also made the point that the vulnerability of the Caribbean Civilization with its exposed borders renders it a prime target of unscrupulous, modern day pirates. A holistic approach to crime fighting Commissioner Pompey says is no longer just an option but a necessity.