Parish police officers are being redeployed to carry out general patrol duties for two months because of “operational priorities“.

A spokesman for the Bermuda Police Service said there will be limited access to parish officers during that period.

There are a total of eight parish constables and one parish sergeant in the BPS, and six of the constables are to be redeployed.

They will support the regular 24-hour, daily response to call for service as part of their redeployment.

The spokesman said: “We recognise the value that parish officers bring to our community and thank the public for their patience and understanding.

“Meantime, should you need to contact the parish constables please call, 247-1425.”

Renee Ming, the national security minister, revealed in November that the BPS had asked for extra cash to fund a recruitment drive.

Asked whether the redeployment of parish officers reflected a lack of staff, the spokesman said: “In keeping with its mandate to make Bermuda safer, the BPS continues reallocate resources as necessary.”

There are parish officers designated to each Parish. Their responsibilities include working with schools and youth initiatives, supporting community groups and setting up the Neighbourhood Watch Programmes throughout the island.

Each officer works closely with their respective Parish council and other community groups and leaders, in an effort to find long-term solutions to long-term problems.

The officers conduct town hall meetings and community clinics on an annual and quarterly basis allowing residents to raise their concerns and offer solutions. Both groups work together to tackle problems and concerns which might include antisocial behaviour, loitering, speeding and drug activity.

Speaking of redeployments on this scale, the spokesman added: “This only occurs when there is a significant abstraction from general patrol for various reasons.”