Knysna Municipality has promised a “Back to Basics approach for Traffic and Law enforcement”. My long impression of several of our local law officers is that they are friendly, likely to wave or say hello. I sometimes receive complaints about Traffic but since i don’t own a car, most of my encounters are restricted to traffic controllers of whom i’m a big fan. There is certainly need for some to be healthier, able to walk the streets, but the Knysna Municipality’s press release doesn’t mention increasing foot patrols, something that citizens want the most.

PRIDE, INTEGRITY, HONESTY, RESPECT & DIGNITY

The Knysna Traffic Department held a strategic and training session with the traffic and law enforcement officers of Knysna on Friday 17 February 2017.

Traffic Superintendent Nathan Arendse was the coordinating facilitator of an uplifting session surrounding methods of improving the conduct and service delivery of Knysna Traffic and Law Enforcement officials which was addressed and discussed. The session focused on a back to basics approach on traffic and law enforcement officials providing an effective and efficient service, which is community oriented and rendered by professional, accountable and highly motivated staff as well as a discussions around the health and overall well-being of the officers.

Knysna executive mayor, Eleanore Bouw-Spies is pleased that staff members are taking a back to basic approach and that they are being equipped vital skills. “The Traffic and Law Enforcement Departments play a vital role in our town as they deal directly with the public; I am thrilled that they are getting back to basics in their approach. This will enhance their service to our residents but also is important for staff personal development as the skills acquired here will also be useful outside the work place.”

Arendse elaborated on new changes that will take place with in traffic and law enforcement that will enhance their service. “A paradigm shift needs to take place in order for them to do their jobs to the best of their ability. New habits will be implemented using the familiar structure of the representation and meaning behind the star they wear. Pride, Integrity, Honesty, Respect and Dignity. Those five tools will equip them to reclaim the streets of Greater Knysna.”

“The community will be entitled to expect a traffic/law enforcement service which is beyond approach in matters of integrity, honesty, impartial and courteous traffic policing service that is responsive to its needs, open and honest communication that encourages trust, responsible and accountable management and involvement in the planning of law enforcement improvement strategies and programs directly or indirectly affecting such community, with shared vision by the community and the department this will be easily achieved,” Bouw-Spies concluded.

Press release by Knysna Municipality Communications Department – communications@knysna.gov.za.