Police officers and firefighters to get a pay rise and more up-to-date equipment

From July 1 the average gross salary of a police officer will rise to zl. 2217. Interior Minister Marek Biernacki says zl. 25 million has been allocated for police salaries. In future, officers will also be paid according to their achievements, potential and qualifications. "We want to encourage the people who risk their lives to protect us," said Prime Minister Jerzy Buzek. Some of the money will also go to border guards and firefighters. A further zl. 55 million is expected in order to finance police reforms. The police would like to spend zl. 1 billion buying new equipment by 2004. Next year, the police budget is to increase by 20%. (Puls Biznesu, page 16) J.K.