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  • Minister Long pays tribute to Sir Desmond Rea

    Date published: 26 May 2026

    Justice Minister Naomi Long has paid tribute to Professor Sir Desmond Rea, extending condolences to his family and friends on his passing.

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    Professor Sir Desmond Rea served as the inaugural Chairman of the Northern Ireland Policing Board from its establishment in 2001 until 2009, playing a crucial role at a time of significant change and transformation for policing in Northern Ireland.

    Minister Long said: “Sir Desmond will long be remembered for his role as Chairman of the first Northern Ireland Policing Board.  Sir Desmond dedicated much of his life to public service, overseeing the Board and the PSNI during a critical and very sensitive time in Northern Ireland, overseeing the newly formed Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) and implementing the significant reforms from the Patten review. 

    “I extend my deepest sympathies to Sir Desmond’s wife Maeve, his daughters and the wider family.”

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