the "congenial atmosphere'' surrounding the new contract signed on Friday.

During the next two years, backdated to October last year, officers will get a six percent increase. The increase is granted in two three percent increments.

A highlight of the contract is the start of a career break policy under the conditions of service in which leave can be given for education breaks without loss of seniority or benefits.

The contract talks are believed to have gotten underway in earnest this year and Police Commissioner Jean-Jacques Lemay and Bermuda Police Association chairman Sgt. Michael Jackman noted this was the first contract negotiated without the help of third party intervention in 12 years.