The Minister for Defence Timoci Natuva has defended the Job Evaluation Exercise used for Police Officers who were part of the force from 2004 to 2011.

Natuva has responded to concerns raised by Police Officers who have been disappointed with the Back Pay that was issued on Thursday.

In a written statement, the Minister has defended the Job Evaluation Exercise Process used in determining the Police Pay Out.

He says 30% has been paid out, 6% of which was paid out every year over 5 years from 2004 to 2009.

Natuva explains the salary was calculated on a pro rata basis from the period that they were employed that is from 1st January 2003 to the salary at date of retirement or 2011 for serving officers.

He adds this was inclusive of the allowances if they qualify meaning that not all police officers qualify for the entitlements.

He adds Terms of Reference for the Task Force was thorough and included a preliminary investigation, independent verification and audit.

A number of police officers raised their concerns about the amount of money they received in their pay out.

These officers included both existing and retired policemen.