before their contracts end.

The decision was announced last night by Police Commissioner Mr. Lennett Edwards after talks with Minister of Delegated Affairs the Hon. Sir John Sharpe.

Mr. Edwards was full of praise for the 23 officers, who include parish constables and specialists in marine work, narcotics and traffic.

"It really saddened me that I had to lose them. Each and everyone of those officers were able to stand on their own two feet and do an outstanding job,'' he said.

He added: "It has been agreed they will be given any pay for any leave due them that cannot be taken before they finish.'' Mr. Edwards also met with the Police Association last night over the job losses.

He said it was agreed the officers -- 13 Barbadians and 10 Britons -- could work until the last day of their five-year contracts.

They were due to finish in June, July, and August.