found themselves behind bars.

The bars may not be steel. Nor intended to imprison. But nevertheless they mark a form of tyranny -- that of the recession.

The 12 youngsters are innocent victims of Government cutbacks.

For three years, between the ages of 16 and 19, they have slogged through their cadet training.

Normally they would move straight on this summer to the 15-week basic training course for 19-35-year-olds.

But this has now been suspended -- and it has left their fledgling careers in a form of limbo.

Until they finish their basic training they cannot step up to the rank of constable.

In the meantime, they are being kept busy working eight-hour days alongside Police officers.

As well as picking up on-the-job experience, they continue to receive another compensation for frustrated ambition -- pay.

"They have to report every day to their division,'' said Police spokeswoman Sgt. Andrea Browne.

"Hopefully it won't be too long, however, before they can start basic training.'' Sgt. Browne explained training at the Cadet School in Glebe Road lasts around two weeks.

It involves a first introduction to law, drill, marching, physical education, and basic "Police principles.'' Cadets then move on to Bermuda College for normal academic training like any other youngster.

"When not at college they are at Police training school, or on attachment to a division working alongside an officer,'' said Sgt. Browne.

"They get paid, and it is what we call earn as you learn.'' After completing the cadet scheme, the youngsters have a passing out parade.

Sgt. Browne said the last training course at the Cadet School was August 10-21.

This year only seven cadets were on it. In previous years there have been as many as 20.

Hopefully, the basic training courses will have kicked off again by the time the seven reach the same stage as their 12 predecessors.

The plight of the 12 cadets mirrors that of several others hoping to join the Police straight from colleges and universities.

Their career plans have been thrown into turmoil by constant postponements of a succession of new start dates.

It is understood would-be recruits were last told the course would kick off in January.

Normally around 18 trainees attend the summer and winter courses.

Police last week declined to commit themselves to any restart date for the courses.

"They have been postponed due to financial reasons,'' explained Police spokesman Sgt. John Dale.

The suspension of courses follows news of possible cutbacks in Police manpower.

Up to 15 jobs could be axed as Police chiefs battle to cope with cash constraints.

The possible jobs losses have sparked fierce criticism from Independent MP Harry Viera and Shadow Minister of Delegated Affairs Mr. Stanley Morton.