Officer faces medical discharge

Paralysed WA police officer Ryan Marron faces an uncertain financial future after WA Police started the process to discharge him on medical grounds.

The 32-year-old constable is still unable to walk or talk three years after a mosquito carrying Murray Valley encephalitis bit him while he was on duty in the Kimberley.

WA Police Union president George Tilbury said the union was disappointed WA Police had started the process without first confirming that the State Government would approve an ex gratia payment application lodged by Const. Marron to cover continuing medical costs and loss of income.

"We thought it was in the best interests of Const. Marron and his family that WA Police should hold off on any retirement until the ex gratia application was processed," Mr Tilbury said.

Commissioner Karl O'Callaghan confirmed Const. Marron and his parents had been told of the intention to retire him. He said Const. Marron's employment would not end until there was an outcome on the ex gratia payment application.

Mr O'Callaghan said he had no say in the Government's decision regarding a payment.

Const. Marron would be entitled to continuing medical retirement support for the rest of his life.

A spokeswoman for Attorney-General Michael Mischin said the application was under consideration by the State Solicitor's Office.