Striking Czech police refuse to hand out fines
Police officers in the Czech Republic have begun a protest action on Monday to address difficult working conditions that include low starting wages, rising bureaucracy, and staff shortages, local media outlets have reported.
The five-day protest, intended to last through Friday, will not compromise public safety, according to organizers.
Police officers in the country are legally forbidden from walking out in protest so collective action has to be carried out in other ways. Officers reportedly planned to limit ticket issuance for minor violations and to extend response times for non-emergencies.
Martin Cervenka, union representative and police chief in the town of Pisek, announced that police would not fine offenders for not wearing seatbelts, driving without headlamps and minor parking violations. Rules regarding serious violations such as speeding, running red lights, handling mobile phones while driving, while emergencies will still be promptly responded to.
Cervenka told media that a lack of financing has led to acute personnel shortages. His department should have 41 officers employed, while in reality only 28 work there, with six of these planning to leave the force by year’s end, he noted claiming that further demonstrations will be held if progress is not made in addressing these issues.
Another, larger protest is planned for November 21 in front of the Ministry of the Interior in Prague.
