Rotary honours an extraordinary policeman

Detective Chief Superintendent Derek Haines, Rosie
Jamieson, Secretary, Rotary SUNRISE and
Stuart Diamond, President of Rotary SUNRISE.

Thursday,  August 11, 2005

When Hurricane Ivan struck these Islands, the immediate disarray could easily have caused widespread pandemonium. The total loss of all of the services, the lack of food and water and the huge devastation was a challenge that could have brought even the sturdiest population to their knees.

According to Rotary Sunrise, it is at times like these that natural leaders emerge. Men and Women who take the helm and create a steadying influence, tame the conditions and soothe emotions and pressures and make things feel better than they are.

“Such a man is Detective Chief Superintendent Derek Haines,” said Geoff Matthews on behalf of the organisation. “Despite losing his own home and office, he remained on duty before, during and after the hurricane with little relief. He, with other Officers, ventured out whilst the storm was still raging, to assist stricken citizens.”

DCS Haines ran the operational and tactical command of the Royal Cayman Islands Police Service (RCIPS) during that time and re-located policing operations when the Central Police Station was devastated by the storm. DCS Haines chased and apprehended looters when that despicable element emerged in George Town. He personally led the teams that quelled two separate disturbances at HMP Northward.

“Throughout the period of the emergency and thereafter he presented very popular and informative morning briefings on Radio Cayman,” reminded Mr Matthews. “In the community he personally led the cleaning and rehabilitation of the Cayman Rugby Football Union’s pitch and clubhouse and also traveled to Dublin at his own expense to lobby the IRB for emergency rebuilding funds for the Union.”

Notwithstanding his 30+ years of service as a police officer (during which he has served with high distinction), according to Rotary, his dedication to duty before, through and after the passage of Hurricane Ivan is conspicuously worthy of recognition.

Rotary International has a special Centennial Service award for professional excellence and very few are ever awarded; this year only 10 around the world and only after extreme scrutiny to insure that they are truly deserved.

However considering DCS Haines’ respect among the community it is no surprise that Rotary SUNRISE nominated him for the special award and the club was delighted when it was granted.

“Derek Haines is a remarkable individual – he does a very difficult job with courtesy and respect – a very good man to have around when things get difficult,” said the Rotary President Stuart Diamond.

The presentation of the prestigious award was made at the Rotary SUNRISE breakfast meeting at Grand Old House.

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