The memories of a Police Negotiator

This evening our speaker Colin McDougall, who after 30 years service is a retired Strathclyde Police Negotiator, he gave us an insight into situations where his skills had been utilised throughout his career.  These negotiating skills were called upon in addition to his normal police duties, which often meant him being contacted at all hours of the day and night.

Colin a local Greenock lad recalled his early years after joining the police as a young Officer when things were approached differently from the way they are today, where situations are approach with more care and understanding, but with a resolve to bring situations to a close safely for all those involved.  A key aspect is to be prepared (as far as is possible), and when negotiating he advised it is essential to establish trust, which at all times means telling the truth, as without truth both current and future situations may be compromised.

He went on to recall operations where he had to deal with situations from prison riots to hostage taking and to individuals threatening to commit suicide.  In all these circumstances Colin endeavoured to control the scene and establish understanding to bring matters to a satisfactory conclusion. 

Members enjoyed the talk and appreciated the contribution Colin had made to protecting society with his obvious exceptional skills. Yes a most enlightening evening.