The government has decided to improve the financial conditions of the members of the police force, in recognition of their service, the prime minister said this evening.

Speaking at the Passing Out parade of a group of 70 recruits, Dr Gonzi said the service of the police required sacrifice, commitment and dedication.

The members of the police force were often closer to danger than others and they were often faced with delicate situations, Dr Gonzi said.

In this context, the government had decided to improve the financial compensation given to the members of the police force, Dr Gonzi said.

"We would like to see the income of the members of the police force reflect the work that is carried out, and the complexity of your service, Dr Gonzi said.

He said the government would bring about the improvements responsibly, keeping an eye on financial sustainability to ensure that finances remained on a sound footing and the country would not endure the sort of difficulties suffered by other nations. 

The ceremony was the last to be held at Fort St Elmo, the home of the Police Academy for the past 24 years. The fort is to undergo extensive restoration and the academy is to move to new premises currently being built at Ta' Kandia. It will be temporarily housed at the former Umberto Calosso School in Sta Venera.