In recent times, the British security industry has witnessed its own ‘snowmare’, or if you like, ‘securitymare’ following Government’s plans to replace the Security Industry Authority with a new regulatory body yet to be announced. The Government has consulted very widely; and is still doing so with key industry players, institutes and organisations; save the SIA licensed Security Officers themselves, as the ignorance displayed by field officers about this very matter, leaves much to be desired.
Also, despite the fact that much has been written by the security press about the subject matter, uncertainty still rules the future of the SIA, the formation of the new Security Alliance and the future of regulation within the industry.
Vigilance learnt authoritatively that the Security Institute which has now established itself as a valued and integral member of the new Security Alliance is determined to represent the views, hopes, comments and aspirations of its membership, through the Alliance, to the SIA. But does the SI actually have the backbone to rid the industry of this ‘securitymare’ that hangs over it like the sword of Damocles?
It appears to hope so. But let’s wait and see.
As if to convince the doubting Thomas’s of its capability, the Institute is launching what it will like to refer to as “a new and exciting Members' Forum”, where all grades of Institute membership can have their say and express their views and hopes for the future of regulation, the SIA and the industry as a whole.
Vigilance learnt from the grapevine that Institute member Mr Mike White has agreed to act as Chairman for the Forum and will ensure that the views of the members are accurately reported back to the Board.
The launch of the new Forum will take place on 19th January 2011 at 18:00 at Westminster City Hall and all Institute members are invited to attend the meeting, where White and the Institute’s Chairman Mr Mike Bluestone will be on hand to answer questions and brief members on developments so far.
Prospective attendees are to confirm attendance directly to Mike White by e-mailing: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., no later than17:00 on the 17th of January, 2011 for refreshment arrangements to be confirmed.
However, any member unable to attend, but wishing to make a comment or raise a matter for discussion can also contact Mr White directly.
Dates for subsequent Forum meetings will be announced shortly and full details of all Forum matters will also be posted and regularly updated on the Institute’s website.
Inaugural Meeting
Venue: Westminster Council House, 97-113 Marylebone Road, London NW1 5PT
Time: 18:00hrs
