The Northern Territory Police Association said it was appalled by the potential budget saving measures being tabled by the Police Department.

The proposed cuts were the subject of a media leak.

The association has attacked the NT Commissioner of Police and his department for failing to consult on the issue before it was made public.

NTPA president, Paul McCue, said this is nothing short of disgraceful and their members deserve better.

“Pressure from this NT Government, which seemingly continues to ignore the mounting pressure on our officers, is forcing the NT Commissioner of Police, Reece Kershaw, and his Executive to make decisions that are putting crippling belt-tightening measures ahead of the best interests of his employees.

“It is unacceptable that our members are finding out about these incredibly contentious issues via the media, rather than following the formal consultation process between the Department of Police, NT Government and the number one stakeholder of the Police portfolio, the NT Police Association.

“The Commissioner, and this government, is showing no respect to the NTPA, and the 99% of sworn Officers it represents.

“It is baffling these proposed savings are being drafted, when the NTPA has not received formal correspondence from the Commissioner or his Department, for measures that would require significant industrial changes to the 2017 Consent Agreement, which was only finalised in February of this year.

“The NTPA will not allow the Police Department or this government to put a harsh ‘return to budget’ plan before what is necessary for supporting our members,” Mr McCue said.

Leader of the Opposition, Gary Higgins said the police should be sufficiently resourced to do their job whether in towns or remote communities.

“Territorians rely on our police, and their fellow frontline workers, to keep the rest of us safe.

“It is simply not acceptable to cut the budget, or the resources, including training, equipment and support to the Territory’s cops.

“It is imperative the Northern Territory offers the incentives to attract and retain our police on the beat in the Territory.

“I call on the Minister for Police to apologise to the Territory’s rank and file, and to reassure all Territorians that the Territory Police Force will not face cuts,” said Mr Higgins.