Police need support, not point-scoring
Published Date:
21 March 2008
IT is a sign of the changing times in Northern Ireland that both communities want to see more police officers on the streets.
Even Sinn Fein leader Gerry Adams, in between the political point-scoring, is calling for a more robust effort by the PSNI in his constituency of West Belfast against the anti-social elements which at one time flourished under the lawlessness created by the IRA campaign.
The terrorists spent decades intimidating – and indeed even murdering – people who co-operated with police, yet Mr Adams obviously now expects the PSNI to eradicate crime within 14 months of Sinn Fein lending their "support" to law and order.
He has discovered that increased policing requires resources, and they are already stretched to the limit. Thanks to the Patten report – welcomed so enthusiastically by nationalists – police numbers were decimated, and many experienced investigators were allowed to leave the job.
As they grapple with current issues, the PSNI has to deal with the legacy of the Troubles and the chief constable has highlighted the strain historical investigations are placing on his service.
Sir Hugh and his men and women deserve support in west Belfast and across the country.
The full article contains 202 words and appears in n/a newspaper.
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Last Updated:
21 March 2008 11:50 AM
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Source:
n/a
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Location:
Belfast
