Justice Minister meets new NCA Director General
Date published:
Justice Minister David Ford today met with Lynne Owens, new Director General of the National Crime Agency.
During a meeting in Belfast, David Ford welcomed Ms Owens to her new post and discussed the ongoing work of the NCA in Northern Ireland. The NCA is an integral part of the Organised Crime Task Force which is chaired by the Minister.
David Ford said: "I want to start by paying tribute to Keith Bristow for his work and determination to secure a fuller role for the National Crime Agency in Northern Ireland while reflecting the lead role of PSNI and our accountability structures.
"I welcome the opportunity to meet Lynne Owens in her first weeks in office. I am pleased that she has made a visit here an early priority and I wish her well in her new post."
Commenting on what the NCA can offer the Minister said: "The fact that the National Crime Agency has now been fully operational in Northern Ireland since May of last year is a major boost in the fight against organised crime. It is making a significant contribution in many areas. This comes from its ability to tackle serious and organised crime threats across boundaries including, for instance, in relation to child sexual exploitation, human trafficking and drugs, meaning the most serious criminals can be pursued wherever they are. It also has expertise in bringing civil recovery proceedings. An important element is that its engagement either supports the PSNI or releases the PSNI to conduct other investigations."
Lynne Owens in welcoming the opportunity to come to meet the Minister said: "The NCA wants to contribute to the protection of citizens across the United Kingdom. I believe it has a significant role to play here. It is already involved with PSNI and tackling serious and organised crime across a number of fronts."
Notes to editors:
1. Lynne Owens took up post in January. She succeeds Keith Bristow who has now retired.
2. Lynne Owens was Chief Constable of Surrey Police prior to her appointment. She had previously served with the Metropolitan Police Service as Assistant Commissioner.
3. The NCA's powers extended into the devolved arena in May 2015 after legislation had passed through the Assembly.
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