NSW: Costa backs Moroney
By Janine O'Neill, Police Reporter
SYDNEY, April 18 AAP - NSW Police Minister Michael Costa today gave a ringing endorsementfor acting police commissioner Ken Moroney to take on the job permanently.
Mr Costa's public backing came as the police veteran of nearly 40 years began the firstday of his temporary role, beginning with a meeting with the minister.
Peter Ryan ended his six years as state police chief yesterday,
Mr Costa and Mr Moroney emerged from the meeting to say they had had "a very frankand open discussion" about a range of issues, including the separation of powers.
Mr Costa also openly backed Mr Moroney as a favoured contender for the full-time positionof top cop.
"We've got an interview process, but I won't beat around the bush," Mr Costa told reporters.
"I certainly have a lot of respect for Ken Moroney and if he was to emerge as the newcommissioner, I would be delighted.
"He is certainly somebody I favour for the position, I make no apologies for that.
"Ken is somebody that not only do I share his direction in relation to policing butthat I get on very well with, I find him a pleasure to work with."
This shared view was a "back to basics" approach to police, increased visibility ofpolice on the streets and greater responsiveness to crime, Mr Costa said.
Mr Moroney denied suggestions he had told Mr Costa to butt-out of operational policing.
"... his encouragement to myself and the deputy commissioners was quite simply - hewanted us to enjoy a very frank, honest and open relationship," Mr Moroney said.
"The issue of a separation of powers has long been a matter of discussion not onlyin this State, but every other State.
"It's an important issue, we both understand that, we have a good working relationship.
"But it's necessary for those things to be stated."
NSW Premier Bob Carr said he was confident the relationship between the two men wouldbe successful.
"Commonsense determines how a police minister and how a commissioner get on and commonsensewill determine this relationship.
"It will be a successful relationship," Mr Carr said.
"I've got all the confidence in the world, and so has Michael Costa, in Ken Moroney.
I see Ken Moroney as a hands-on, commonsense, level-headed police officer.
"He's a tough cop and he'll make a real contribution to safer streets in NSW."
Mr Ryan had made it clear at the weekend he had difficulties working with Mr Costa.
The commissioner's position is set to be advertised nationally within days, and thesuccessful applicant should be on the job by June.
AAP jo/nf/mjm/bwl
KEYWORD: POLICE MORONEY COSTA LEAD
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