Competition launched for independent Policing Board members

The Department of Justice has launched a recruitment competition for nine independent members of the Northern Ireland Policing Board.

The Policing Board, which includes ten political members and nine independent members, is responsible for ensuring the provision of an effective, efficient, impartial and accountable police service in Northern Ireland, and for holding the Chief Constable to account for the exercise of his functions and those of the police.

Launching the competition, the Department’s Permanent Secretary, Nick Perry said,  “The work of the Policing Board is central to the policing architecture in Northern Ireland and those appointed will have a demanding role to play, dealing with many complex issues, during their tenure.

“Since the Board’s inception in 2001, support for policing from all sections of the community has increased and it is important to build on this achievement.  The independent members will be crucial to maintaining and building on that level of support.  I am committed to ensuring the Board is able to perform its responsibilities to the full and is capable of securing widespread public confidence.

“As political members have not yet been nominated, we do not have a fully functioning Board at present. Nonetheless, it is important to prepare. Taking this process forward now will allow appointments to the Board to be made without delay once circumstances permit.” 

“Having an effective and efficient Board which holds the PSNI to account is vital, particularly in the current financial environment.  The Board also has a significant role in overseeing the work of the National Crime Agency in Northern Ireland, and will have oversight of the Historical Investigations Unit to be established in line with the Stormont House Agreement.  I would encourage anyone who has an interest in policing and who believes that they can make a positive contribution to apply.”

As the Policing Board is still in transition to a system of staggered appointments, six independent members will be appointed for three years and three for four years.

The deadline for receipt of applications is 12:00 hours on Thursday, 3 May 2018.

Notes to editors: 

1. View the candidate information packs and applications forms

Copies are also available as follows:

Telephone: 028 905 26196 or 028 905 28122

E-mail: nipb.appointments@justice-ni.x.gsi.gov.uk

By writing to: NIPB Independent Members 2018, Department of Justice, Policing Policy and Strategy Division, Room A4.15, Block A, Castle Buildings, Stormont Estate, BELFAST, BT4 3SG.

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