Coronavirus: Senior police officer moves to clarify PSNI stance after ‘unapproved’ statement appears on Facebook pages

The comments, since removed, claimed “exercise begins and ends at your front door”.

The issue has been highlighted on BBC Radio Ulster’s Nolan Show throughout the week.

A PSNI spokesperson told the Nolan Show: “Due to the personal commentary of the officer which did not reflect the PSNI’s communications approach in relation to Covid-19 the post was removed.”

Commenting on the issue today, Assistant Chief Constable Todd said: “An unapproved statement was posted on both the Larne and Carrickfergus Facebook pages on Friday, April 10.

“The contents of this post were inaccurate and did not reflect the corporate position of the police on people travelling for exercise under the new Covid-19 regulations. This post was later removed.

“The restrictions are clear in that they require you to not only have a reason to leave home, but a necessity. Leaving home without that necessity may put you in breach of the restrictions.”

ACC Todd added: “The keys for us are, is your journey necessary and is it reasonable? These are the questions you need to ask yourself before you travel because the test of reasonableness and necessity are the parameters within which police officers must operate.

“The vast majority of people are abiding by the guidance and the rules and we appreciate their support and cooperation. I want to say thank you to our communities at this time.

“I know that you are being asked to make extraordinary changes to your lifestyle and I know this is a really difficult time for people; but you are making a difference and you are saving lives.”

Meanwhile, comments posted on the PSNI’s social media channels by a police spokesperson on April 12, stating: “Necessary exercise starts at your front door. If you make the choice to travel unnecessarily, you could face a fine of £60,” remain on police Facebook and Twitter pages.

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