Long comments on PSNI inspection report
Date published:
Justice Minister Naomi Long has commented on the findings of a PSNI inspection assessing effectiveness and efficiency in crime prevention.
Justice Minister Naomi Long has commented on the findings of a PSNI inspection assessing effectiveness and efficiency in crime prevention.
His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary and Fire and Rescue services (HMICFRS) is tasked with independently evaluating the effectiveness and efficiency of UK police and fire and rescue services.
In November 2024, pursuant to section 41 (2) of the Police (Northern Ireland) Act 1998, HMICFRS were commissioned to undertake an inspection of the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), specifically focussing on its effectiveness and efficiency in relation to crime prevention and deterrence as well as the management of suspects and offenders.
The Minister said: Whilst there are many operational challenges for the PSNI and the Northern Ireland Policing Board (NIPB) to take forward, the inspection report also underscores the impact of reduced police officer numbers on our communities. It highlights the critical need to address the decline in numbers and warns of future risks if the situation is not addressed.
“Increasing police numbers is a key priority that the Chief Constable and I share. The Chief Constable and I are fully committed to recovering workforce levels to 7,000 officers and 2,572 staff within the next three years.”
The Minister continued: “By keeping communities safe we enable them to have the confidence they need to live productively and engage fully in society. That is clearly laid out in the new programme for government, and I will continue to advocate strongly for additional resources for the PSNI to enhance public safety.
In conclusion, the Minister thanked HMICFRS for the comprehensive report and the PSNI officers and staff for their professionalism and dedication which was also acknowledged in the report.
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