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Unification is happening, and that would appear to be a good thing for the security industry as a whole.

Security Industry Alliance (SIA) chairman confirmed last month at the announcement of an interim board for the security industry, that 'considerable progress' has been made in the last six months to consolidate a fragmented industry, to communicate on key issues through a single channel and to take an active role in building relationships with important constituencies and Government.

The SIA notes the milestones to date as:

Working more closely with the South African Police Services, including the setting up of a SAPS/SIA firearms task team;

Joining Business Against Crime's Crime Combating Forum;

Liaising with the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA);

Establishing links with a number of Government departments, among them the Department of Safety and Security and the Department of Justice;

Developing an effective working relationship with the Safety and Security Education Training Authority (SASSETA); and

Launching an official website (this can be found at www.securityalliance.com)

"The fact that SIA now has its own administrative structure and offices (in the Chamber of Mines building in Marshalltown, Johannesburg) have helped to give the Alliance a clearer identity," says Conradie. This has been strengthened by the appointment of the interim board comprising major players in the industry and employer representative groups. The interim board is made up of Steve Dube (SABSEA), Shadrack Dladla (SIASA), David Masekela (NOPSA), Steve Friswell (SANSEA), Kevin Derrick (SSEO), Anthony Rosenbaum (ESDA), Steve Conradie (COM and chairman), Mike Hodgson (SAIDSA); Johan du Preez (LASA), Douglas Brake (Securicor), Danna Strydom (ADT), Jack Edery (Elvey Group), Wahl Bartman (Fidelity Group), Clive van Ryneveld (Chubb) and Kenny Filha (BAC).

The next goal is to appoint a permanent CEO early next year.

The size and ongoing growth of the private security industry in South Africa demands a unified umbrella/governing body and SIA has taken that step, may the Alliance go from strength to strength. We will keep you updated.

As we head towards the Festive Season it is a known fact that crime increases - be aware and be safe!

Lynne Larsen

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