15 August 2006, DILI - The Special
Representative of the Secretary General (SRSG) for Timor Leste, Sukehiro
Hasegawa today visited district headquarters in the eastern town of Viqueque
and listened to suggestions from National Police officers on how the United
Nations could help improve their performance in the future.
He also discussed the district's situation
with District Administrator Francisco Da Silva.
SRSG Hasegawa said he would bring their suggestions and requests to the attention of the authorities in Dili.
One of the senior PNTL officers in Viqueque said they would need better communications equipment, cars and fuel to run them, computers, printers, and photocopiers and more training from UN Police, especially in the area of internal discipline.
An officer suggested that a future UN police force set up stations in every district and several at Fatuhai on the eastern access to Dili. Another officer said it is very important to be able to receive TV broadcasts of the national network, RTTL, which at present are not available in Viqueque.
An officer complained of a lack of rice, as did families at a displaced persons camp the SRSG also visited. A member of the UN staff told both groups that she had reliable information that government shipment was expected this week.
Hasegawa said he would not promise anything but would bring their suggestions to the relevant authorities in Dili and discuss with the UN Police their suggestions on the need for more assistance in strengthening discipline.
Earlier in the day Hasegawa exchanged views on the political situation with Bishop Basilio do Nascimento of Baucau, and visited the Baucau district administrator Luis Aparicio.
For additional information, please contact: Donna Cusumano, Chief, Public Information Office, UNOTIL; +670 723 0749 or Spokesperson Robert Sullivan at 670 331-2210, extension 5165