Hundreds of West Australian police officers forced to retire on medical grounds have received an apology from the state government.
Police Minister Michelle Roberts offered the gesture as certificates of honourable discharge were handed to 299 former officers at ceremonies in Perth and Bunbury on Wednesday.
She hoped the certificates would restore some dignity for the officers, who were retired when no longer able to serve due to injury or illness using the same "loss of confidence" provisions to oust corrupt officers.
The government this year amended the law so officers forced to medically retire could do so with dignity.
A $16 million compensation scheme for officers who have already left the force was also introduced, with 265 former officers deemed eligible for payments.
"We recognise the regrettable process in which these officers were removed from the force and the psychological burden they carried because of the way their careers ended," Ms Roberts said in a statement.
"I hope the presentation of these certificates goes some way to righting a historical wrong and gives these officers the dignity and recognition they deserve.
Australian Associated Press
