UUP: PSNI’s rebranding ‘mistake’ over insignia changes

Responding to Chief Constable Simon Byrne’s rebranding proposals, the Ulster Unionists said the current crest was already ”a major compromise” arising from “intense negotiations” back in 2001.

A party spokesman said: “Having viewed the proposals, the Ulster Unionist Party notes that on the image which is intended for use on vehicles and uniforms, the words ‘Northern Ireland’ have been omitted from the insignia.

“We believe this is a mistake which should be rectified during the consultation process. Furthermore, the St Patrick’s Cross, which forms part of the crest, should of course be red not green.”

The spokesman said any rebranding exercise “would need to be very carefully explained and be supported by very good reasons,” and added: “We need to know why a change is being proposed and what the rationale is behind it. We also want to take the opportunity to hear the views of the police family, including the Police Federation and retired officers.

“We are very clear that employee stakeholder input is crucial to any changes, not least because of the high level of professionalism and heroism displayed by our police officers.”

Defending what he called the “soft testing of new ideas before consultation,” Mr Byrne said: “These proposals reflect the style and tone I set out to the Policing Board upon my appointment about being more visible and accessible as a police service. The term PSNI is an acronym that has no basis in law and our proposals are based around retaining the crest and the name ... at the heart of what we do.”

On Monday, a NI Policing Board spokeswoman said: “The board’s Partnership Committee was briefed (May 21) on a review of the PSNI Communications and Engagement approach which included plans for a branding refresh for the service along with changes to improve the functionality of the police uniform.

“The name of the Police Service of Northern Ireland is enshrined in legislation through the Police (NI) Act 2000. There will be no change to the legislative name of the PSNI or the service crest which was agreed by the board in 2001.”

The spokeswoman added: “The rebranding plans being proposed by PSNI were noted by the board in advance of a full public consultation on the proposals and changes being suggested. The board will receive a full report back on the consultation exercise along with the full costs associated with any future change.”