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20/12/2002
No alternative to baton rounds says report
There is no alternative to baton rounds when it comes to crowd control, according to a government report.
The Steering Group for the phase 3 report on baton rounds has stated that that there is "still no off-the-shelf, commercially available, effective and acceptable alternative to the baton round at this time".
The report also gives further details on the decision by PSNI to place an order for six vehicle-mounted water cannon announced in July this year, to enable them to be equipped with a broader range of public order equipment.
Security Minister Jane Kennedy today published the report on the third phase of the Patten research programme aimed at finding an acceptable, effective and less potentially lethal alternative to the baton round.
Ms Kennedy said: "We are energetically implementing Patten's recommendations on the baton round, and this phase 3 report reflects the commitment and urgency with which the research programme is being taken forward.
"It is a thorough and comprehensive piece of work which describes the extensive research into alternative less lethal systems conducted over the past 12 months. I believe it is unprecedented in terms of its national and international context.
"Building on the comprehensive evaluation on the phase 2 report, it details research so far into two alternative technologies offered by the private sector, and also sets out the urgent development research that the Northern Ireland Office has commissioned from the government's own professional advisers.
"I would welcome the views of the Policing Board, the Chief Constable and other interested parties on this latest report. Indeed the report invites comments on specific points. Comments from all parties with an interest in these important matters will always be welcome."
The report both sets out PSNI's approach to conflict resolution and policing with the community together with comparisons with the approaches in North America.
"I would be delighted if the public order situation improved and removed the need to resort to baton rounds at all. The whole community has a contribution to make to achieve that aim, but sadly we are not there yet," she added.
(GMcG)
The Steering Group for the phase 3 report on baton rounds has stated that that there is "still no off-the-shelf, commercially available, effective and acceptable alternative to the baton round at this time".
The report also gives further details on the decision by PSNI to place an order for six vehicle-mounted water cannon announced in July this year, to enable them to be equipped with a broader range of public order equipment.
Security Minister Jane Kennedy today published the report on the third phase of the Patten research programme aimed at finding an acceptable, effective and less potentially lethal alternative to the baton round.
Ms Kennedy said: "We are energetically implementing Patten's recommendations on the baton round, and this phase 3 report reflects the commitment and urgency with which the research programme is being taken forward.
"It is a thorough and comprehensive piece of work which describes the extensive research into alternative less lethal systems conducted over the past 12 months. I believe it is unprecedented in terms of its national and international context.
"Building on the comprehensive evaluation on the phase 2 report, it details research so far into two alternative technologies offered by the private sector, and also sets out the urgent development research that the Northern Ireland Office has commissioned from the government's own professional advisers.
"I would welcome the views of the Policing Board, the Chief Constable and other interested parties on this latest report. Indeed the report invites comments on specific points. Comments from all parties with an interest in these important matters will always be welcome."
The report both sets out PSNI's approach to conflict resolution and policing with the community together with comparisons with the approaches in North America.
"I would be delighted if the public order situation improved and removed the need to resort to baton rounds at all. The whole community has a contribution to make to achieve that aim, but sadly we are not there yet," she added.
(GMcG)
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Latest baton rounds branded 'more dangerous'
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28 May 2002
Police use of plastic bullets “justified” says watchdog
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Police use of plastic bullets “justified” says watchdog
The use of plastic baton rounds by police over the past year was “fully justified” a Police Ombudsman report has concluded. The Police Ombudsman’s report published on Tuesday deals with seven incidents, which took place in Counties Armagh and Antrim over a twelve-month period (April 2001 to March 2002).
11 December 2002
Numbers of plastic bullets fired by army rises sharply
A new report has revealed there has been a large increase in the number of plastic bullets fired by British Army soldiers in Northern Ireland.
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22 March 2016
Police Justified In Using AEP Baton Rounds And Tasers Against Armed Man
Police were justified in using AEP baton rounds and Tasers against a man armed with machete-type sword, the Police Ombudsman has concluded. Witnesses reported that the man had used the swords to hit himself on the head and cut his throat in the Stiles Way area of Antrim in the early hours of 17 January 2015.
Police Justified In Using AEP Baton Rounds And Tasers Against Armed Man
Police were justified in using AEP baton rounds and Tasers against a man armed with machete-type sword, the Police Ombudsman has concluded. Witnesses reported that the man had used the swords to hit himself on the head and cut his throat in the Stiles Way area of Antrim in the early hours of 17 January 2015.
23 April 2002
North Belfast security measures result in arrests
The Police service of Northern Ireland have set up a special team to identify those involved in rioting in north Belfast. Following examination of CCTV footage three men have already been arrested for disorderly behaviour following stone throwing in Ardoyne on Monday night. One police officer was seriously injured in the trouble.
North Belfast security measures result in arrests
The Police service of Northern Ireland have set up a special team to identify those involved in rioting in north Belfast. Following examination of CCTV footage three men have already been arrested for disorderly behaviour following stone throwing in Ardoyne on Monday night. One police officer was seriously injured in the trouble.
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
