PSNI Chief Constable briefs Policing Board on Ormeau Road incident

Northern Ireland’s police chief has briefed members of his oversight body – the NI Policing Board – on last week’s controversial incident on the Ormeau Road when a Troubles survivor was arrested after an atrocity anniversary event.

Simon Byrne and deputy chief constable Mark Hamilton spent more than two hours discussing the issues with members on Thursday morning.

The session was held during a scheduled meeting of the board’s performance committee, to which all board members were invited.

Afterwards a statement agreed by all members was issued by Policing Board chair Doug Garrett:

“Discussion focused on issues relevant to the incident on 5 February and around wider concerns from recent events. With the matter under investigation by the Police Ombudsman, the Board is now restricted in public comment on the incident.

“That said, board members are agreed that the policing of Covid-19 regulations has proven to be challenging. All members recognise the environment that policing has had to operate in, and the impact real time policing incidents have had on community views, perceptions and overall morale within the service itself.

“The different perspectives and views around policing style, approach and community relationships will need further consideration by the board. However, there remains a consensus and commitment from all of our board members to work with the Chief Constable as we move forward in dealing with the issues.”

Statement from the Chief Constable Simon Byrne.

“This morning I had a constructive meeting with the Northern Ireland Policing Board where I provided members with an update on the post incident challenges and their management arising from the incident at Ormeau Road on 5 February and an overview of the current challenges faced by the Police Service. As the incident itself is under investigation by Police Ombudsman I was unable to discuss any of the detail nor am I in a position to make any further public comment. 

Regarding the meeting I welcome the recognition from the Board as our accountability body that the Police Service of Northern Ireland is currently operating in a very challenging and difficult environment. I further welcome the commitment from the Board to work with me to address the challenges the Police face, not least the potential for a reduction in police officer numbers following our draft budget allocation for 2021-2022. 

I remain strongly committed to enhancing both community policing and confidence in the Service. I will continue to engage with a wide range of stakeholders over the coming weeks and I will provide updates to the Board on progress on a monthly basis”.