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22/09/2009
Baggott Takes PSNI Reins
Northern Ireland's new police chief Matt Baggott today said he does not "diminish" the threat posed by dissident republicans, writes Paul Reilly.
Mr Baggott, speaking to assembled press at NI Policing Board headquarters in Belfast, he conceded the threat is "real", but was resolute that the PSNI has the support of the majority of the community.
"I don't diminish it, I don't underplay it, it is real. And there are some people doing some dedicated work at the moment to deal with it," he said of the threat.
"The way to deal with it is for communities themselves in the vast, vast majority to say 'No' to the people who want to return to the past."
The Chief Constable said it "saddened" him that some elements within the province were intent on carnage and a "future of hopelessness".
Insisting he was here to fulfill his full five year contract, the former Leicestershire Constabulary chief, said he was "mindful of the sensitivities of the past".
Besides the issue of terrorist violence, Mr Baggott said he would take actions by senior command to cut read tape "a stage further".
"I've come here with a record of challenging bureaucracy, challenging processes. I need to free people up to improve that policing presence."
The new police chief said he and his team would work to get "best use out of the resources we have", at a time of budget cuts.
On the matter of devolved policing and justice powers, Mr Baggott said the final resolution rested with politicians.
Discussing the prospect of a Stormont policing minister, Mr Baggott insisted the "answers to most policing problems rest with local people".
Security was heightened across the province today in anticipation of the new chief constable taking office.
On Friday the PSNI launched Operation Dissent, which has seen an increase in police check points and more visible patrols.
Less than a fortnight ago army bomb experts defused a 600lb explosive planted by dissidents close to the border.
Last week sustained trouble erupted in Lurgan following the jailing of three local men in connection with a terrorist bomb plot.
See: 'Futile' Lurgan Violence Condemned
(PR/BMcC)
Mr Baggott, speaking to assembled press at NI Policing Board headquarters in Belfast, he conceded the threat is "real", but was resolute that the PSNI has the support of the majority of the community.
"I don't diminish it, I don't underplay it, it is real. And there are some people doing some dedicated work at the moment to deal with it," he said of the threat.
"The way to deal with it is for communities themselves in the vast, vast majority to say 'No' to the people who want to return to the past."
The Chief Constable said it "saddened" him that some elements within the province were intent on carnage and a "future of hopelessness".
Insisting he was here to fulfill his full five year contract, the former Leicestershire Constabulary chief, said he was "mindful of the sensitivities of the past".
Besides the issue of terrorist violence, Mr Baggott said he would take actions by senior command to cut read tape "a stage further".
"I've come here with a record of challenging bureaucracy, challenging processes. I need to free people up to improve that policing presence."
The new police chief said he and his team would work to get "best use out of the resources we have", at a time of budget cuts.
On the matter of devolved policing and justice powers, Mr Baggott said the final resolution rested with politicians.
Discussing the prospect of a Stormont policing minister, Mr Baggott insisted the "answers to most policing problems rest with local people".
Security was heightened across the province today in anticipation of the new chief constable taking office.
On Friday the PSNI launched Operation Dissent, which has seen an increase in police check points and more visible patrols.
Less than a fortnight ago army bomb experts defused a 600lb explosive planted by dissidents close to the border.
Last week sustained trouble erupted in Lurgan following the jailing of three local men in connection with a terrorist bomb plot.
See: 'Futile' Lurgan Violence Condemned
(PR/BMcC)
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The man selected to lead Northern Ireland's police force has said he hopes to build on his predecessor's success. Matt Baggott was appointed by the NI Policing Board last night, and will replace outgoing Chief Constable Sir Hugh Orde. Sir Hugh is standing down to preside over the Association of Chief Police Officers.
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The new PSNI Chief Constable has officially started his role today. George Hamilton has taken over from Matt Baggott who announced his retirement in January. In a video message, Mr Hamilton said: "I joined the police service to keep people safe and it's that same motivation that drove me to apply for the job of Chief Constable.
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The new PSNI Chief Constable has officially started his role today. George Hamilton has taken over from Matt Baggott who announced his retirement in January. In a video message, Mr Hamilton said: "I joined the police service to keep people safe and it's that same motivation that drove me to apply for the job of Chief Constable.
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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.
