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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 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 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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GB Constabulary Boss Takes Top NI Post
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 Order. Sir Hugh is standing down to preside over the Association of Chief Police Officers.
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'Crime Feedback' Promised By NI Cops
Northern Ireland's police are making a set of promises this week that may prove to be hard to keep in practice. In a ground-breajing initiative, a new set of commitments has been put forward by PSNI Chief Constable Matt Baggott to help increase accountability.
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14 May 2003
UK sends policing advisors to assist in Iraq
Policing experts are traveling to Iraq today to advise on the stabilisation of the security situation and to participate in a review on how to rebuild the Iraqi police service. The team of four will be led by Chief Constable of Hampshire - and Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO) international portfolio holder - Paul Kernaghan.
UK sends policing advisors to assist in Iraq
Policing experts are traveling to Iraq today to advise on the stabilisation of the security situation and to participate in a review on how to rebuild the Iraqi police service. The team of four will be led by Chief Constable of Hampshire - and Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO) international portfolio holder - Paul Kernaghan.
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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.
