‘This must not happen again’ - police urged to concentrate on fighting crime after logo climbdown

A new simplified version of the current PSNI logo, which was for potential use on vehicles and social media and digital platforms, only had the words Police Service NI on it.

But after controversy over the plans Chief Constable Simon Byrne said the simplified crest would no longer be included in a public consultation on wider rebranding proposals.

DUP Lead Policing Board member Mervyn Storey said the proposed change could have undermined confidence in the police.

He added: “The PSNI has many more important priorities in tackling crime rather than a rebranding exercise.

“Contrary to what has been said, Policing Board members had to press the PSNI for the detail about this rebrand. Eventually details were secured last Thursday, and members were given an opportunity to study the detail but were unaware that the Chief Constable was going to tweet all detail on Friday.

“Lessons must be learned going forward to ensure this does not happen again. All Policing Board members should be trusted with the detail throughout such a process so important feedback can be given on matters that would have a political impact.”

Chief Constable Simon Byrne insisted it had never been the plan to replace the current crest entirely.

“Since my appointment, it has been my ambition to make the police service more visible, accessible and responsive,” he said.

“It was part of my vision to refresh our corporate image, branding, uniform and fleet as symbols of our ambitious modernisation plans.

He added: “This has resulted in much debate and commentary and provoked a strong reaction from some.

“I have listened to the feedback and as a result can confirm that the simplified white version of the crest planned for use on social media and digital platforms will not now form part of the public consultation and will no longer be used.”

The Police Federation for Northern Ireland, the representative body for rank-and-file PSNI officers, said it was “time to move on” from the furore.

PFNI chairman Mark Lindsay said: “In our pre-consultation phase, we saw merit and value in much of what was proposed. At the heart of what was set out was a desire to simplify and modernise PSNI branding.

“The pre-consultation was open and transparent. One element, however, subsequently received some push-back. The Chief Constable has reacted promptly to acknowledge and address the concerns that were expressed.

“It is now time to move on from here. In our view, this does not take away from the worthwhile goal of modernising the look of the service. For example, work on uniforms and vehicles must proceed as it will benefit officers in a meaningful and practical way.”