A manpower shortage in the Bermuda Police Service may lead to summertime employment for former officers.

A spokesperson said Police officials first successfully experimented with the temporary initiative last summer.

At that time, two officers who left the service for further education were employed during the school break.

Now officials are looking into the possibility of repeating the exercise to ease a current strain on an undermanned force.

But the spokesperson said only officers who left the service within the last 18 months would likely be considered.

And they will not serve in "fully operational'' roles, but may instead work as radio operators to free up other full-time officers to pound the beat.

However, any temporary officers will be paid at only an entry-level wage regardless of previous experience.

The Service does not plan to actively recruit among its former personnel, but will instead respond to any officers who offer their services.

The spokesman pointed out utilising the experience and know-how of former officers made good sense for the Service.

However, he admitted officers did not expect a great many responses and, if the plan goes ahead, it will be months before anyone is re-hired.