Question
To ask the Chief Constable whether he understands that the decision not to proceed with the Chief Inspector post for South Armagh could impact on community confidence in the area, particularly as the very first recommendation of the South Armagh Review, which he accepted, anticipated that the Chief Inspector post for South Armagh would be required for 3-5 years.
Answer
- We are acutely aware of the likely adverse impact upon community confidence arising from not just this decision but all of the difficult resourcing decisions we must now take as an immediate consequence of our current budgetary situation.
- Regrettably, as outlined in our letter of 18 July to Mr Blair, Chair of the Partnership Committee, due to continuing uncertainty with regard to the Police Service budget for 2022/23, we have immediately commenced work on a “rank ratio” exercise, examining the number of officers at rank as a proportion of overall numbers.
- The additional post in South Armagh was never established under our Human Resources plan.
A total of six established Chief Inspector posts were cut as a result of this exercise. - That being said, we are reliant and satisfied, that the professionalism and dedication of the management team in Newry, Mourne and Down will continue to provide appropriate leadership and oversight of the remaining recommendations in the South Armagh Policing Review.
- Chief Inspector Lyne Corbett will assume geographic responsibility for the Slieve Gullion area and Inspector Corner, who discharged his duties as the temporary Chief Inspector in South Armagh very effectively, remains attached to the District and will continue to provide support to Chief Inspector Corbett and Superintendent Haslett
We are grateful to the board for their continuing support and advocacy highlighting the very real and immediate consequences an inadequate budgetary situation on our service delivery
Liz Kimmins - Sinn Féin