The USA came to NI this week as US Members of Congress and the US Consul General to Belfast, Kamala Lakhdhir arrived at the Board's headquarters.

The Chairman and Vice Chairman of the NI Policing Board welcomed the delegation who were then given an overview of the Board's role in police oversight and policing reform in Northern Ireland to date.

Speaking after the meeting, Board Chairman Barry Gilligan said: "The Board were delighted to have the opportunity to brief members of the US Congress on key policing issues and future challenges ahead.

"We are entering a new phase in policing history and there are now real opportunities to build on the substantial progress that has been made to date," he said.

The delegation heard that lessons had been learned 'along the way' and the Chairman also highlighted some difficult and contentious issues that the Board has had to deal with over the last eight years.

He also emphasised that the Board has worked on the basis of consensus and has taken decisions based on what is best for policing and what is right for the community in terms of service delivery.

"Devolution is the last piece of the policing jigsaw and it is a matter for the politicians on the timing.

"The Board and police service are ready for devolution and it will bring benefits to policing.

"However, it is important that in devolution the role of the Board is not diluted in terms of its independent oversight," he continued.

Commenting on the visit, US Congressman John Tanner, Representative for Tennessee's 8th District in West and Middle Tennessee and Chair of the House Foreign Affairs Committee said: "Our delegation was most impressed with the progress made by the Board, but also the co-operation of the people of Northern Ireland.

"In following Secretary Of State Clinton's visit, we wanted to show the continuing interest of the US Congress in your historic endeavour.

"It is a model for free people everywhere," he said.

Meanwhile, by way of illustration of the Northern Ireland Policing Board's 'outreach' activities, it has announced it will hold a public engagement meeting this week in Co Antrim.

It will be at the Tullyglass Hotel, Ballymena, on Tuesday 10th November, at 7pm.

The public will be given the opportunity to question Policing Board Members and the new Chief Constable, Matt Baggott on current and future policing issues.

The Board will also outline its approach to community engagement and how it is working in partnership with sections of the community to help build safer communities.

(BMcC/GK)