CATERING staff at St Helens police station are waiting to see if they will still be employed there after July 31 this year when the current catering service contract runs out.

Merseyside Police has carried out a comprehensive review and consultation with catering staff, canteen users, trade unions, staff associations and other external organisations and is yet to make a decision about 19 out of the 20 canteens.

Chief Constable Norman Bettison, has received a proposal to provide kitchens and vending machines and to retain a central staffed facility to meet operational catering requirements. A final decision is expected within the next week.

Assistant Chief Constable, Michael Baxter, said: "The review has been carried out as part of the force's commitment to ensure we give the most efficient and effective policing service to the people of Merseyside. Our aim is to provide a range of refreshment facilities that best meets the needs of staff across the force."

A spokesman for the police added: "The proposal will impact on staffing levels and Merseyside Police recognises this is a difficult situation. The force has assured affected staff that re-training and re-deployment will be offered and every avenue will be explored to avoid compulsory redundancy."

A decision is expected to be made by Friday, February 4.

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