Get Home Safe this New Year

As Christmas seems almost as far away as ever many people will be preparing to celebrate the arrival of 2013.

  

If you are planning to go out over the New Year period we want you to be safe.  Whilst the risk of becoming a victim of crime is low there are a number of simple steps that you can take to make sure that you keep safe.  Many incidents are opportunistic in nature and therefore your actions can make a real difference.

If you are outdoors:

• Stay in bright, well-lit and busy areas.
• Look and act confident.
• Get a personal attack alarm. They are available from DIY stores or ask your local Crime Prevention Officer.
• If you are in a club or pub watch your drink - do not leave it unattended and if you have to leave for any reason, stay with friends.
• Have definite arrangements for getting home and stay together in a group. 

When carrying a bag or valuables:

• Carry your bag close to you with the clasp facing inwards.
• If possible carry your things in a small bag across your body, under your outer coat.
• Spread your valuables around.  For example, carry your house keys in your pocket, your phone in your bag and your money in your jacket.
• Try not to advertise your valuables, mobile phone, laptop, MP3 player, jewellery, watches.
• If someone tries to take something and you feel in danger, let it go.

If you are alone and think that you being followed:

• You can check if someone is following you by crossing the street – more than once, if necessary.
• Go to the nearest busy place or well-lit area and call the police on 999.
• Avoid enclosed spaces, e.g. an enclosed telephone box, as you could become trapped inside.
• If you are in immediate danger and there are other people about, call out for help.

There is more advice on our website http://www.psni.police.uk/crime-prevention.htm

It is also important to remember our 'One Punch' campaign.  Since 2004, 20 people have died as a result of One Punch attacks and many more have been seriously injured.

With just One Punch, lives have been destroyed and families’ lives have been wrecked.  The majority of these incidents are fuelled by alcohol and can have a devastating impact on the victim and their family. The offender will likely face a murder or manslaughter charge and have a criminal record for the rest of their life, this type of conviction also imposes restrictions on their ability to travel.  One moment of madness can have drastic consequences.

Be assured that we will have officers on duty across your area helping to keep you safe but we do need your help. 

Have a great New Year, but most importantly, Get Home Safe.

A personal Christmas appeal

It is disappointing that just over one week to Christmas that I find myself blogging about protests, threats and disorder on our streets.  And whilst it is not my place to get drawn into the politics of decisions around flags and emblems, inevitably these decisions can have a very significant impact on your Police Service.

Over the past few weeks the officers and staff of the Police Service of Northern Ireland have been working tirelessly to try and facilitate peaceful protest and appropriately deal with those intent on violence, while at the same time, ensuring that everyone going about their normal business making Christmas preparations can do so safely. 

In addition we have also had to contend with the series of threats and attacks on our elected representatives, which I absolutely and utterly condemn.  The Police Service will continue to work closely with each of these members of our community to advise and support them.

I am appalled and condemn the attacks which have injured police officers and in particular, the disgraceful attempted murder of my colleague in East Belfast, when a petrol bomb was thrown into her police car.

Our officers and staff, like everyone else, have preparations to make in the run up to Christmas and unfortunately these recent events have meant longer hours for many, and family events being missed.

 Despite all these challenges, we have the responsibility to continue providing the normal 24/7 policing service. Our 'Season's Greetings' operation is ongoing across Northern Ireland and all sorts of advice on how to stay safe and avoid becoming the victim of crime this Christmas is available on our website www.psni.police.uk/index/crime-prevention/personal/personal-safetywww.psni.police.uk/index/crime-prevention/personal/personal-safety

All of these recent events come at a cost. Not just personal and financial for policing, but the economic cost to those businesses who were counting on a much needed Christmas boost.  I have been listening to media reports about reductions in footfall in our towns and cities, accommodation cancellations and all this has the potential to have a much longer economic impact way beyond the current protests.

I appeal to everyone involved, or thinking of becoming involved in these protests to be responsible and to think about the longer term impact of their actions.  

I welcome the joint statement of the First and deputy First Ministers and ask those within our Assembly and communities, who have influence, to give responsible leadership.

I ask young people who may see this as a chance to become involved in disorder to think carefully. Your actions can have a life long impact on your ability to go onto further education, seek employment or to travel.  If you become involved there is a very good chance that you will be caught and dealt with appropriately.

This is not a situation of our making, but I want to reassure you that your Police Service will do everything it can in the days ahead to ensure that, in so far as possible, everyone can go about their business in safety and with minimum disruption. 

Despite everything, Belfast and Northern Ireland is still a relatively safe place and by everyone taking sensible precautions, respecting the law and taking responsibility for their own actions we can all contribute to a safe and peaceful Christmas.

Appealing for calm in the festive season

I had the privilege of attending a lunch this afternoon at the Titanic Signature Building in Belfast, hosted by the Ireland Fund in honour of US Secretary of State, Hilary Clinton.


It is perhaps timely if not a little ironic, in a week that has seen further public disorder and protests on our streets, that Secretary of State Clinton was here to reaffirm the US administration's commitment to peace in Northern Ireland and also to acknowledge how much progress has been made.


This is a time when we would anticipate that Belfast and other cities and towns should be buzzing with pre Christmas shopping. Traders have had a tough year and many rely on this time of the year to survive. I know that issues such as flags and emblems are contentious and sensitive but with this high profile international visit underway I'm also conscious of how Northern Ireland is being perceived internationally and by the traders who have travelled specifically to Northern Ireland to take part in the City's Christmas Market.


The last thing any of us needs right now is images of thugs throwing barriers and missiles at police in protective public order equipment, and premises and homes of democratically elected representatives being attacked. Those who undertake such violence only serve to put jobs on the line, divert reduced finances away from other, more important issues and divert police resources from working in the very heart of communities to tackle serious harm and keep people safe.


We acknowledge the right of those to undertake peaceful protests and where it is lawful we will uphold this right. But with this right comes an equal responsibility regarding the safety consequences of such protests at a time when cities and towns are at their busiest. I appeal for those with influence in the community to help bring to an end to the protests and disorder.


We are committed to playing our part in a safe festive season. Where there are protests or disorder, we will seek to minimise the impact to the wider community to ensure that everyone, in so far as possible, is allowed to go about their normal business with minimum disruption.

Planning for the Northern Ireland Community Safety College

I spent the first part of yesterday morning in Cookstown, opening the Curriculum Conference for the Northern Ireland Community Safety College at Desertcreat.

Progress towards the delivery of our new College is gaining some serious momentum and we hope to conclude the procurement process early next year, with the award of the construction contract. 

I also had the opportunity last week to go to the Police training College at Garnerville in East Belfast, to meet with the people who have been given the task of developing and delivering the various strands of the new College. Individuals from the three services working side by side. 

Yesterday's conference was about discussing the important issues of how changing learning styles will impact how we train going forward, how training can meet future societal expectations and how we can deliver realistic and effective public safety training.  

Our partners in the College, the Fire and Rescue Service and Prison Service,  were also present and key to the new curriculum will be how we train together - which we are planning will be the rule rather than the exception. 

We have also been engaging locally, on a regular basis, to keep the people of Cookstown, and in particular those who live in close proximity to the site, fully advised of progress.   

I am really looking forward to watching how the delivery of our new College develops over the next few months.  This is probably one of the most exciting developments in policing here for some time.     

If you are interested in finding out more about the College, you can visit the website at http://www.desertcreatcollege.org/   

Working Together to Tackle Hate Crime

This week the Hindu Community locally and globally celebrated Diwali, or the Festival of Lights as it is also known.  As part of this festival, small clay lamps are lit which symbolise the triumph of good over evil.

There has been a small Hindu community in Northern Ireland for some years, the actual number would be around 1,000 members, making this the third largest minority ethnic population.  The wider Indian community have been present in Northern Ireland from around the 1920's with members mostly working in the food industry and as GP's, doctors and consultants.

Sadly members of minority ethnic groups do not always feel welcome in Northern Ireland and this week our Policing with the Community Branch have been hosting a Hate and Signal Crime workshop in Belfast.  This event marks the introduction of a new role within Neighbourhood Policing Teams - Hate and Signal Crime Officers (HSCOs) will be taking over an enhanced monitoring and review role from the previous Hate Incident and Minority Liaison Officers.

The role of the HSCOs is to improve the quality of service we give to victims of hate crime and to increase community confidence in the Police Service to encourage more victims of Hate Crime to come forward and report these crimes.  We welcome the input, involvement and support of our key partners at the event: Victim Support, Chinese Welfare Association, Polish Association, Rainbow Project and Disability Action. 

Working together we can address underreporting, improve and achieve best evidence in our investigations and raise our clearance rates.  We are also seeking, in partnership with our criminal justice partners, to obtain the evidence which will permit the courts to increase sentencing for offences that are aggravated by hostility based on the victims' actual or presumed religion, race, sexual orientation or disability.

The community have a wider responsibility to make Northern Ireland a hostile place for perpetrators of hate crime and to ensure that everyone, regardless of their background, race or religion, feels welcome and safe in the community where they live, work or socialise.  I would encourage anyone who can assist us in preventing or detecting hate crime to proactively support us.   Hate crime is not acceptable under any circumstances, and by working together we can ensure this message is understood by everyone.

'Delivering Women, Peace and Security'

I had the pleasure of speaking at a conference hosted by Hanna's House at Croke Park, Dublin yesterday afternoon.  Hanna's House is a home for an active feminist community in Ireland, working for a non-violent, just society that embraces diversity. 

This was an all Ireland conference on 'Delivering Women, Peace and Security' and considering how much progress has been made in implementing the UN Security Council Resolution (UNSCR)1325.

UNSCR1325 was a landmark international legal framework that addresses not only the inordinate impact of war on women, but also the pivotal role women should and do play in conflict management, conflict resolution and sustainable peace. 

I had been invited to speak about 'Gender Perspectives in Policing and Security'. President of Ireland, Michael D Higgins opened the conference. 

In addition to providing an update on progress towards addressing the under representation of women within the Police Service of Northern Ireland I also used the opportunity to pay tribute to influential women who had played a significant role in the peace process and conflict resolution.

I thought particularly of the words of Yvonne Black, who in spite of her personal tragedy said “grief in other homes will achieve nothing.” Even in the midst of such bereavement this courageous woman wanted to appeal for no retaliation. The thoughts and prayers of all right thinking people will be with Mrs Black and her family as they prepare to lay David to rest. 

I can think of so many other women of courage, some very public and some not so, who have played such an important role in peace making and peace keeping.

I encourage them, and everyone else, despite the events of last week to relentlessly work to achieve that goal. 

Deputy Gillespie pictured along with Michael D Higgins and other guest speakers at the conference.

World Police and Fire Games 2013

As I pen this blog it is only 278 days 9 hours and 45 minutes to the start of the World Police and Fire Games (WPFG) 2013 in Belfast.

This is a mammoth task and I have the privilege, as Chair of the WPFG Board, to see first hand just how much progress has been made in ensuring that we deliver the best and friendliest games ever. 

I want to pay tribute to all my colleagues in the WPFG Company and of course  the WPFG Board  members representing other agencies for the fantastic work and achievements to date. We have heard so much recently about the value placed on the volunteers at the Olympic and Paralympic Games in London. 

Our games will present a similar opportunity to volunteer and experience what could be a once in a lifetime opportunity, to be a part of such a fantastic event.  Volunteer registration has been open for a number of weeks but will close at the end of this month on 31st October.

There are lots of opportunities to get involved. Team 2013 will be made up of over 3,500 individuals. By applying to volunteer, you could meet some of the thousands of international competitors, visitors, spectators, media and VIPs at the Games. You will help make it a truly memorable experience for everyone involved, so this is your chance to welcome the world, represent your community and have fun!   You will also receive really useful training which could lead to other opportunities in the future. 

Up until the closing date, the WPFG staff team will be delivering the "VolunTour" - series of roadshow information points which will travel across Northern Ireland, engaging with the community to highlight the many opportunities available at the Games. 

Already they have visited shopping centres, libraries, college fresher fairs, a range of high profile public events, business and sporting conferences.  If you're aged 16 or over, interested in and enthusiastic about helping us deliver the friendliest games ever, and can spare three days of your time between 1-10 August 2013, then look for further information on where you can meet up with the team members at http://www.2013wpfg.com/volunteers.aspx 

You can also find out how more about WPFG and how to volunteer on the website, www.2013wpfg.com, by emailing 2103wpfg@volunteernow.co.uk or by telephoning 028 9023 2020.

Don't miss out of this fantastic opportunity - register now and get involved.   

Today (18 October) is Anti Slavery Day

Anti-Slavery Day was created by Act of Parliament in 2010, with the intention of raising awareness of modern slavery and to inspire people to eliminate it. 

Today provides an opportunity to draw attention to the subject and remind government, local authorities, public institutions, private and public companies and individuals of the need to address the scale and scope of human trafficking.

It is widely acknowledged that somewhere between two and four million people are trafficked across international borders or within their own countries on an annual basis. 

It is shocking to think that in 2012, there are more people across the world being held in slavery and servitude, than there were at the time of the abolition of slavery over 200 years ago.  

This type of crime is a major source of funding for organised criminals, and terrorism, within  Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, and internationally. 

In recent years your Police Service has recognised the growing issue of human trafficking in Northern Ireland. We have dedicated resources from within Crime Operations Department to proactively identify and target the individuals and organised crime gangs involved and raise awareness in the community of the issue. We have also worked with partner agencies to ensure  appropriate support mechanisms are in place to help those victims, men, women and children, when rescued. 

In the past few years over 80 potential victims of human trafficking have been rescued and provided with support in Northern Ireland. The most prevalent form of exploitation encountered was for sexual purposes, predominately in off-street prostitution - something which has been described as "rape for profit". 

Other forms of exploitation encountered include labour exploitation in various industries and indeed domestic servitude. Individuals have also been subjected to exploitation within criminal enterprises, for example cannabis cultivation,  highlighting the importance of distinguishing between those engaged willingly in criminal offending and those who are the subject of exploitation.  

The trafficking of people is a gross violation of a human rights and should not be tolerated within any society, far less within 21st Century Northern Ireland. The reality is that it could be happening in your local area, in your city, town or village or even right next door to where you live. 

We will continue to do everything within our powers to make Northern Ireland a hostile place for Human Traffickers, but we need your help.

If you see anything suspicious; people regularly coming and going from premises with no apparent legitimate reason, then please tell us.  Speak to your local Neighbourhood Policing Team, call us at the PSNI Organised Crime Branch on 0845 600 8000 or tell us anonymously on Crimestoppers 0800 555 11.  

Find out more about this issue at www.blueblindfold.co.uk or www.ukhtc.org - your help could rescue a vulnerable victim from the horror of modern day slavery.    

Attendance at Public Accounts Committee

This afternoon the Chief Constable and I are attending the Public Accounts Committee along with representatives from the Department of Justice and the Northern Ireland Policing Board.

The purpose of our appearance is to answer questions in relation to the recently published Northern Ireland Audit Office report 'The Police Service of Northern Ireland: Use of Agency Staff'.

At the outset of my blog it is critical that I acknowledge the importance of this report and indicate that the PSNI has accepted all the recommendations many of which reflect our current practices.  We welcome such independent scrutiny and there are lessons to be learnt from the report and its findings.  Over the past 10 years the PSNI has faced unprecedented change, 5,453 police officers and 2,323 police staff left the organisation.  No other police service in the United Kingdom, and possibly in the world, has ever experienced anything quite like this.

Against the background of such significant change, there are areas where with the benefit of hindsight we could have applied more scrutiny and grip.  The Chief Constable has accepted how some may see the recruitment of agency staff as contrary to the spirit of Patten.  Of course Patten did not envisage a 'new beginning to policing' in the face of such a protracted and severe terrorist threat,  and without the use of some agency staff police officers who are critical to preventing serious harm and terrorism would be confined to non operational roles.  The Northern Ireland Audit Office Report accepts the business need for the use of temporary staff, some of whom by necessity would be ex-police officers. 

The ultimate prize of change has been the increase in community confidence helped by the achievement of 30% Catholic police representation, and the devolvement of Policing and Justice powers - the very reason why locally elected representatives can sit today and question us on these matters. That confidence is delicate, and needs to be treated with respect in everything that we do. 

Going forward, we will work on the implementation of the Northern Ireland Audit Office Report's recommendations and we will continue to build on the governance surrounding the appointment of temporary workers so that the community confidence the PSNI has worked so hard to achieve is maintained and enhanced.

Staying safe at College or University

Most students will, by now, be well settled into the new term at their college or university.

As well as focusing on your studies it is important that you think about how you can keep yourself safe and protect your personal property. There are lots of very simple steps which you can take to make sure that you do not become the victim of crime or come under the attention of the police.

When out and about, know how you are getting there and home, if going out, particularly during the hours of darkness don't go out alone or at least tell someone where you are going and when you might be back. Keep your bag and other items of value close to you and if possible out of sight and don't carry around large amounts of cash. If you are out socialising stay together, do not consume excessive amounts of alcohol and do not leave drinks sitting about unattended.

If you are staying away from home in rented or student accommodation make sure that you lock your house or room. If you are on the ground floor don't leave items of value, such as cash, laptops, phones or tablets, within sight of windows. Thieves will target student accommodation for small items which are easy to conceal, particularly at those times when they know they are likely to be away, for example, weekends. If you can take out property insurance and if you are concerned about the physical security of your property or room talk to your landlord or warden.

It is also important to think about the consequences of inappropriate, illegal or anti social behaviour. Thankfully the number of students who come to the notice of police in these circumstances every year is small, but the consequences for these few can be very significant. There is the potential for a criminal record, expulsion from college or university and long term impact on future employment and travel.

The Police Service do not want you to become the victim of crime or to come under police attention and we will be working with your university and college to do everything possible to prevent this.

Advice is available from the police directly or through your college and you can also find out more by visiting the Student Advice section of our website at www.psni.police.uk/crime-prevention.htm

Condolences to Greater Manchester Police colleagues

It was with a deep sense of sadness that I heard about the deaths of two colleagues from Greater Manchester Police yesterday.

Whilst details are still emerging, Constables Fiona Bone (32) and Nicola Hughes (23) had been called to attend what was reported to be a domestic burglary.

Tragically, it appears they had been callously lured to their deaths. Sadly this scenario is all too familiar having lost so many of my colleagues in the Royal Ulster Constabulary GC and Police Service of Northern Ireland.

Policing is an extended family and when colleagues are killed, particularly in the line of duty, that sense of loss is felt right across the entire policing community locally, nationally and internationally.

I know Chief Constable Sir Peter Fahy personally and as I watched him last night speaking to the media, it was very clear that Greater Manchester Police had lost two excellent colleagues and the community in which they served had lost two fine young police officers.

Yesterday morning they had started their shift and were out there doing the job they loved; helping, supporting and reassuring the people of Hattersley.

Our Chief Constable has written to Sir Peter offering the sincere condolences of the officers and staff of the Police Service of Northern Ireland, and any help and support whatsoever that we may be able to offer at this time.

Our thoughts and prayers are very much with the families of Fiona and Nicola, and our colleagues in Greater Manchester, at this very sad and difficult time.

Policing with the Community endorsed

This week I have been involved in judging, along with the Policing Board Chairman and senior colleagues including a representative from the Police Federation, applications for the Police Officer of the Year Award 2012.  

There are eight categories in all, two of these where members of the public can nominate an individual officer or a Neighbourhood Policing Team for a Policing with the Community Award.   

It is really encouraging to see the number of officers who were nominated by members of the public or by partner organisations, and to read about the breadth and depth of work that is going on across the districts and departments.  This work was also publicly endorsed at the start of the week by the Criminal Justice Inspectorate's report into Policing with the Community.  So selecting the winners was an extremely difficult decision to make.  

The past few days have shown the wide range of challenges faced by police officers, often involving exposure to grave personal risk. Despite these challenges, police officers and staff are pushing the boundaries every single day to work closely with communities to deliver personal professional and protective policing.  Today police officers, supported by police staff, will be out and about as usual all over Belfast and across Northern Ireland, delivering a policing service in partnership with the community.  

The very many initiatives highlighted in the applications also show how communities have embraced policing, working together to make very significant differences in tackling crime and addressing ‘quality of life' issues which can have a great impact on local areas.    

We need to build on the success of these initiatives in partnership with Executive Departments and local agencies, to ensure that those areas of greatest need receive the support they require to make a real long term difference.  

I want to thank those members of the public and representatives from such a variety of partner agencies who took the time to complete and submit applications.   We welcome feedback, both positive and negative, on how we provide a policing service to everyone.   

As a member of the Judging Panel, it was a pleasure to read so many encouraging comments.  I look forward to the announcement in the next few weeks of who will be the 2012 Police Officer and Neighbourhood Policing Team of the Year.

Finding solutions

For me, the last seven days have presented stark contrasts. From the vexed issue of Parades, where we all hope local resolutions that truly respect everyone's cultural traditions and beliefs can be reached through dialogue; to the number of positive examples of how diverse groups are working together and with the police, regardless of their differences to make things better in and for their local communities.

Last Sunday I had the privilege of attending the 6th Belfast Mela - an extravaganza of pulsating music, vibrant colour, tantalising tastes and exotic smells held annually in the Botanic Gardens, Belfast. Around 30,000 people from all backgrounds, ages and faiths came together to acknowledge and witness first hand the positive contribution that people from the Indian and other communities have made to life in Northern Ireland.

On Tuesday I visited the Auld Lammas Fair in Ballycastle, an important part of our own indigenous culture and heritage. Again thousands of people from all backgrounds across Northern Ireland and further afield descended on the town of Ballycastle to experience everything the fair is famous for. I even partook of some of the famous dulse and yellow man.

Yesterday I visited Newcastle to meet with the local Neighbourhood Policing Team and staff and volunteers at the Kairos Centre. The centre is reaching out into the local community to provide all sorts of activities and support to help some of the most vulnerable young people and adults living in the local area.

This week reminded me that despite some very real and continuing deep-seated difficulties, there are so many examples of where local communities are reaching out and across to their neighbours and working together in the background out of the public eye to support each other and find solutions to those issues which matter most.

More Than Just ‘Street Talk’

I have spent today visiting colleagues in the North West.

This morning I started off in Strabane where I had the chance to meet with the local Area Commander, Chief Inspector Andy Lemon and patrol with members of the Neighbourhood Policing Team. I had the privilege of meeting with a number of local representatives who have clearly taken risks to engage with police and work with them to make a difference to address issues that matter to the local community.

This afternoon I had the opportunity to walk the Peace bridge in Derry/Londonderry. This was my first opportunity to do so since its completion. What a truly magnificent, iconic and inspirational symbol in the City.

I then visited the Playhouse where 'Street Talk' a partnership initiative involving young people was being launched. This cross community project was jointly pioneered by the International Culture Arts Network and the Police Service of Northern Ireland. Involving four areas, Magherafelt, Foyle , Limavady and Strabane it uses the media of DJ'ing, graffiti and animation to provide an opportunity for young people to use and develop their skills with the help of professional artists. The work of the young people on display was absolutely fantastic.

A recent thematic review, undertaken by the Policing Board, identified that whilst the Service recognised the role young people play in any effective policing strategy, children and young people had indicated that they can have very different experiences of the police depending where they live. This is one of a number of important partnership initiatives which provides the opportunity for police officers and young people to work directly with each other to share experiences, break down barriers and create greater understanding.

This has clearly been a very positive initiative which has changed perceptions both on the part of police officers and young people - and I hope to see it replicated in other areas across Northern Ireland .

Preparations underway for our own Olympics

I have been enjoying a few weeks off recently but as well as spending some time relaxing away with my family I have been closely following the success of Team's GB and Northern Ireland, and Team Ireland at the Olympics.

Whether you're into sport or not, the entire country seems to be glued to their televisions following the progress of our sports men and women as they exceed all expectations on what already appears to be the most successful Olympics for many years.

It is exciting to think that this time next year we will be hosting our very own 'Olympics' in the form of the third largest sporting event in the world, the World Police and Fire Games (WPFG). Taking place between the 1st and 10th of August, in Belfast, it promises to be one of the most spectacular events to ever come to Northern Ireland with the prospect of over 25,000 visitors and competitors from over 70 countries.

Preparations are well under way to facilitate the 66 sports across 41 venues and I want to pay tribute to the fantastic work of the World Police and Fire Games Company who have been tasked with the delivery of the Games.

Just like the Olympics, there are lots of opportunities for people to become involved by volunteering to assist in a range of activities to ensure that the WPFG is the very best, most successful and friendliest Games it can possibly be. I would encourage everyone, when volunteer registration opens in September, to consider becoming involved by signing up to assist and if you would like to find out how you can, just visit the WPFG website at www.2013wpfg.com

As chair of the WPFG Board I am really looking forward to the Games and the experience of our very own 'Olympics' right here on our doorstep.

Keeping safe this summer

As many prepare to head of locally or further afield for a break over the summer months, I want to remind you all that a few simple precautions which in addition to keeping you and your family safe while you are away, will help ensure your property is protected during your travels.

Unfortunately criminals know that many homes and businesses will be unoccupied for extended periods of time in the weeks ahead and they will seek to exploit this where possible.

If you are leaving your home unattended, arrange for someone you trust to visit it regularly and remove any build up of post, cancel any regular deliveries such as milk or papers and use timers to bring lights or a radio on in different areas of your home during the hours of darkness to give the impression that there is someone at home. If you do not have an alarm fitted, give serious consideration to having one installed - not only is this a deterrent but will audibly alert people that something is not right. If you own a business similar precautions are worth considering.

If you are travelling on the roads whether at home or abroad, check your vehicle is safe to travel, carefully plan your journey, know your route and make sure that you have a means to call for assistance whether it's a fully charged mobile phone, some cash or a phone card. Don't stop if someone flags you down and only give lifts to people that you know. Also keep your doors locked and your valuables hidden from view.

When driving abroad it is important to concentrate fully, do not become distracted and remember to stop somewhere safe if you want to have a look around - remember criminals abroad will try to exploit every opportunity just the same as at home and will try to take advantage of those who may be less familiar with their surroundings.

Think carefully about where you will store money and personal documents, such as passports. Only carry the money that you need at that time and make sure that you conceal it or keep a firm hold on your bag. If there is safe make sure that you use it.

Further crime prevention advice is available on our website at http://www.psni.police.uk/

It's very easy to become overly concerned about personal and home safety but by taking some very practical and simple precautions the chances of becoming a victim of crime whilst away from home will be greatly reduced.

I hope you all, whether holidaying at home or abroad, have a very enjoyable, relaxing and most importantly safe summer.

Graduation success for Kilcooley Women’s Centre

I was delighted yesterday morning to have been invited by Kilcooley Women's Centre to attend their 17th annual graduation ceremony to celebrate the achievement of learners.

Receiving certificates were dozens of women, and a few men, who had taken up the challenge of developing their skills and knowledge through further learning.  It was a diverse group of all ages and backgrounds and many of them had overcome significant personal challenges and demonstrated a sheer determination to do something that many would simply think too difficult.  The was a real sense of achievement as the ladies and gentlemen came forward to receive certificates ranging  from make-up to crafts, computers to maths, GCSE  English and Psychology and British/Irish History to Peace and Reconciliation.  I had the pleasure of chatting with many of the recipients afterwards and want again to add my sincere congratulations to every one of them.

It was very clear to me the fantastic support which the centre is providing to the local community.  People who see the potential in everyone regardless of who they are or where they have come from - it was truly inspiring to see so many people working together not just to develop individuals but for the greater good of their local community.

I understand that there are around 250 women enrolled in educational classes and some of those who have participated have literally been handed a lifeline and an opportunity to turn their lives around.  The centre is literally 'bringing education to the heart of the community.'

I was also pleased to see the local Neighbourhood Police Officers in attendance and this was further evidence of how important it is for the police to work with and in the local community and for the local community to work with the police. 

Personal policing in Foyle

I spent yesterday out and about in Derry/Londonderry.

In the morning I joined the Policing Board Vice-Chair, Gearóid Ó hEára for a walk about in the City and had the opportunity to meet with a number of community workers and visit several community centres.

I also had the chance to speak to some of those people who are working along with local police on the ground in an effort to challenge and reduce paramilitary assaults and shootings. The vast majority of people across the City are quite rightly appalled at the level of these attacks and the callous and barbaric nature of them.

The Police Service have also recently launched a campaign which includes a full review of all investigative leads, a co-ordinated approach with Crime Operations and District policing to disrupt the activities of those believed to be involved in this criminality and we are renewing our appeal for public assistance through the social media platform.

You can find out more about this at http://www.psni.police.uk/index/updates/safer_communities.htm

In the afternoon I had the opportunity to meet with officers who were targeted last week in a bomb attack. I was greatly encouraged by their resilience and determination to continue to serve the local community and tackle local crime. Their desire to do so has in no way been diminished by the cowardly acts of those who attempted to murder them.

I then went on a beat patrol in the City Centre with the District Commander, Chief Superintendent Stephen Martin and members of the local Neighbourhood Policing Team, before calling into St. Columb’s Cathedral to visit the Dean, the Very Reverend William Morton.

I always enjoy visiting the Maiden City. There is a real buzz and optimism about it, making it very difficult to understand why a small number of people would wish to terrorise the local community, when the vast majority of people have so clearly indicated their desire to live in peace.

Despite the negative headlines of the past few weeks, it is very clear that this is a City that wants to move forward and not focus on the past. Your Police Service is determined to play our part in helping the City to do this.

With the full support of everyone, local police will continue to ensure that the community receives the very best personal, professional and protective policing we can provide, so Derry can become a City of Hope for a brighter future for all.

Firefighters graduate

Yesterday afternoon I was delighted to accept an invitation from Chief Fire Officer, Peter Craig, to attend the graduation of 36 Firefighters at their training college in South Belfast.

As this was one of Peter’s last formal engagements before he retires, after 36 years of public service, it would be remiss of me not to pass on my personal thanks, and those of the Police Service, to Peter for his support to us over many years. I wish him a long, happy and healthy retirement.

Thirty Six men and women were celebrating the completion of their initial training before joining their new colleagues at their fire stations across Northern Ireland. I joined their very proud family members and friends as they demonstrated the skills which they had been taught over the past 18 weeks with a number of practical displays.

I admire each of them for their determination and desire to serve all the people of Northern Ireland and like police officers, they will be called upon to engage with danger as others make their way to safety.

We work very closely with our friends in the Fire and Rescue Service and the other blue light responders. We are looking forward to strengthening that relationship over the next few years as we prepare to begin the construction of the new Community Safety Services College at Desertcreat in Cookstown. This exciting venture will see police officers, firefighters and prison officers train under one roof.

Next summer we will also welcome the World Police & Fire Games to Belfast. This is the third largest sporting event in the world with a potential of 10,000 competitors and a further 15,000 accompanying visitors. And the Police Service, Fire and Rescue Service and Prison Service look forward to welcoming our colleagues from across the globe to Northern Ireland.

But as these new firefighters make their way to their new postings, I wish each of them a long, very enjoyable and safe career. I encourage you to give them your full support, listen to the important advice they give and make sure that when they are responding to calls to keep us all safe, that they can do so free from intimidation and confrontation.

A day of contrast

Tuesday was a day of contrasting opportunities to visit local communities in the morning and colleagues undergoing training in the afternoon.

In the morning I visited the Dunmurry Neighbourhood Policing Team and went out on patrol with them in Dunmurry village and also in the Colin area of West Belfast.

Firstly I visited the Dunmurry Community Association at Fullerton Park where I heard first hand, from Billy Thompson, about the fantastic initiatives which members of the local community, in partnership with police, are pioneering to help local young people and provide them with activities to keep them safe and divert them away from criminality and anti social behaviour.

I am always amazed and greatly inspired by the work of volunteers who have a heart for their local community and choose to give freely of their time to make things better for others.

I then had the opportunity to meet with local community, political and council representatives, members from Community Restorative Justice Ireland (CRJI) and statutory service providers at an informal meeting at the offices of CRJI on the Colinglen Road, Belfast.

It was fantastic to hear about how these individuals and their organisations, are working together with local police to help make the local community feel, and keep, safer and to help local communities deal with those issues that really matter to them. The transformation in relationships between the police and the community is quite remarkable and I applaud those both within the community and the police who have pushed the boundaries and taken risks to build that trust and confidence which is so clearly making a difference.

From Dunmurry I headed to Ballykinler in County Down where I joined colleagues who were undertaking public order training. The purpose of the day was to allow multiple public order units to train together in readiness for any situation they might encounter in the future.

There were a number of observers from other agencies present, including the Police Ombudsman’s Office, Learning Advisory Council, Metropolitan Police Service (MPS), Fire Service and the Home Office. The MPS and Home Office representatives were particularly interested to see how our tactics, including less lethal options such as water cannon and the deployment of attenuating energy projectiles (AEPs or baton rounds).

The exercises take place in the tactical village and is a safe learning environment to train for a variety of scenarios from peaceful protests, to public disorder with a ballistic threat. It allows us to ensure that when we do have to respond to public disorder, that we have the ability to deliver a flexible, gradual, proportionate and professional response to the situation.

I am always very impressed by the courage and restraint of PSNI officers who show professionalism in the face of often serious and sustained violence towards them.

Whether on the streets of Dunmurry or West Belfast delivering policing with the community, or keeping communities safe in the face of actual or potential public disorder, your police service works tirelessly 24/7 to ensure that everyone receives personal, professional and protective policing.

I thank those of you who continually work with us to achieve this goal and encourage you to continue to do so. It is very clearly making a difference.

Policing in Armagh

Earlier this week I had the privilege of spending some time with officers and staff in South Armagh and in Armagh City. It is always very encouraging to see first hand how personal, professional and protective policing is being delivered locally.

I was greatly encouraged by the examples of how police are pushing the boundaries locally, engaging with the community and how the community is embracing local policing.

The only way that policing can be truly effective, is with the support and involvement of local communities. I very much applaud those who have taken risks to support local policing initiatives.

I was also able to visit Lisanally Special School in Armagh City with members of the local Neighbourhood Policing Team. I really enjoyed the opportunity to meet with Mrs Sandra Flynn, the Principal, staff members and pupils, learning about their facilities and curriculum, but I especially enjoyed a visit to a Home Economics class and some freshly cooked potato wedges!

The teachers and staff are truly inspirational people with a very clear desire and passion to see the children and young people achieve their very best potential in life. When you have the opportunity to meet with special people like this, it brings a lot of things into perspective.

The visit was a great opportunity for me, but unfortunately because of the responsibilities of my role, it doesn't happen often enough. But it is important that I take the time to see first hand how the policing vision is translating into reality in our local communities.

I am rarely disappointed by the lengths to which officers and staff are going, and the determination they have to ensure that every single community can have a policing service which they desire and deserve.

Crime statistics released

The 2011/12 Police Service of Northern Ireland Crime Statistics were published today.

 

The statistics are available in full on the PSNI website at www.psni.police.uk  but the key findings are:-

 

1. There were 103,389 recorded crimes - a reduction of 1,651 recorded crimes (-1.6%).
2. The number of crimes recorded is the lowest since the new Home Office counting rules were introduced in 1998/99.
3. The number of victims of sexual offences, robbery, burglary, fraud & forgery and criminal damage have reduced.
4. The number of violence against the person, some theft and drug offences increased.
5. The overall detection (clearance) rate in 2011/12 decreased by 1.0 percentage point from 27.3% in 2010/11 to 26.3% in 2011/12.
6. Reports of domestic abuse increased by 11.1%
7. Reports of hate crimes and incidents decreased across all recorded categories - sectarian, racist, homophobic, transphobic, faith, disabilist.

As with any recorded statistics there is always some good news and some not so good news. It is important to acknowledge that the good news is as a direct result of the community working with their Police Service in their delivery of personal, professional and protective policing.

 

You have my commitment that our determination to continue to tackle crime and deal with those issues that matter most to you will be relentless.

 

In the figures there is a reported reduction of 1% in the detection or clearance rate and this could be easily interpreted as fewer crimes cleared. In fact, whilst we would always aspire to make more detections, this figure does not take into account the additional 3% detected but dealt with by Discretionary disposals, this equates to almost 3,000 disposals for crimes.

 

These are crimes that are comparatively minor by virtue of the impact and/or seriousness and where the victim and offender agree on a suitable form of reparation such as an apology, reparation or some other form of restorative outcome.

 

This may at times appear to some be a 'soft option', but the delivery of a speedy outcome has led to increased satisfaction levels amongst victims of crime. This type of disposal is not currently included in the counting rules, otherwise our detection rate would have been around 29%.

 

Whilst the Police Service of Northern Ireland take some comfort from certain areas of performance, there is absolutely no room for complacency and we will continue to do everything in our power to ensure that we continue to tackle serious harm, detect those responsible and keep communities safer.

 

 

 

Appeal for information following the death of Bertie Acheson

I was appalled and deeply saddened by the death of 72 year old Bertie Acheson in Coleraine on Monday past.

Mr Acheson was at home with his wife in the early hours of Monday morning when a person broke into their home and assaulted Mr Acheson, before threatening his wife, Sheila. I cannot even begin to imagine the sense of loss which Sheila must be feeling at this time. My thoughts and prayers are very much with her and the family at this very difficult and traumatic time. Mr Acheson has been described as a good man, living quietly and caring for his wife of 44 years. He lost his life for the sake of £375.

The local community are shocked and understandably upset and angry at what has happened to Mr Acheson and his wife. I know that they will want to help the police in whatever way possible to catch the person responsible. Every shred of information is important no matter how insignificant it might appear and I would appeal to anyone who thinks that they have information which might help the investigation team to make this available as quickly as possible. Better to have a piece of information and rule it out than perhaps be missing that critical link.

We must catch the person who did this and we will do everything within our power to do so – we owe it to Mr Acheson and his wife Sheila.

I can understand why other older people may now be feeling vulnerable in their homes. It will be no consolation to the Acheson family whatsoever to know that crimes of this type are extremely rare. But if you are concerned and would like some advice or reassurance please contact your local police and we will be very happy to assist and advise you. There is also some information on the Crime Prevention pages of our website at www.psni.police.uk/crime-prevention.htm

But if you think that you can help us to catch the person responsible for Mr Atcheson’s death you can call the special incident room at Coleraine on 028 7028 0987 or alternatively Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Countdown begins to 2013 World Police and Fire Games

It’s hard to believe that the World Police & Fire Games (WPFG) is only 16 months away.

This week an international delegation from WPFG is visiting Northern Ireland to see for themselves how preparations are progressing. There is much talk about the Olympic Games this summer in London but the WPFG will be Northern Ireland's very own Olympics – a sporting event on a scale never seen before, and the third biggest sporting event in the world.

Yesterday afternoon I met with the WPFG Federation President, Mike Graham along with Sports Minister Carál Ní Chuilin, Dame Mary Peters, Peter Craig (NIFRS) and Max Murray (NIPS) to chat with the media about the progress towards the delivery of the Games. With the prospect of 10,000 competitors, from over 70 countries, arriving in Belfast along with 15,000 supporters this event has the potential to generate up to £15m for the local economy.

This is just one of a number of very significant and special events happening in Northern Ireland in 2013. I look forward to welcoming colleagues and their families from across the globe to Northern Ireland and to the opportunity to showcase the excellent facilities, attractions and hospitality that Northern Ireland is renowned for.

The opportunities for Northern Ireland created by the Games will extend as a legacy long after they finish and I look forward to seeing Northern Ireland put on the map for all the right reasons.

You can get more information on the Games by accessing http://www.2013wpfg.com/

National Stalking Awareness Day

Today, 18 April, is National Stalking Awareness Day and the key message is 'Taking Stalking Seriously'.

Stalking is a term commonly used to refer to unwanted and obsessive attention by an individual or group to another person. Whilst the word 'stalking' does not appear in law there is legislation which covers the behaviour commonly referred to as 'stalking'. It can take the form of physical or emotional abuse and may be carried out by someone who is known or unknown to the victim. It may take place directly or indirectly through mediums such as social media.

National Stalking Awareness Day is run in conjunction with the National Stalking Helpline - Freephone 0808 802 0300. If you feel that you are in immediate danger you should call 999. Further information and advice is also available at www.stalkinghelpline.org

Stalking is a serious crime and affects millions of people across the United Kingdom every year - it's not funny, it's not flattering and it can be dangerous.

The important thing for anyone suffering in this way is that help and advice is available. The Police Service of Northern Ireland will respond to any complaints seriously and where criminal offences have been identified, take appropriate action, provide advice on who can help and highlight other civil legislation options which may be available.

If you think that you are, or may be the victim of stalking, there are some very simple measures that you can take to help protect yourself.

• Consider carrying a personal alarm.


• Vary your daily routine and take different routes to and from work.


• Know where the nearest safe location is, for instance a police station.


• Talk to your local police Crime Prevention Officer about using CCTV and/or installing an alarm in your home.


• Ensure all your doors and windows are locked before you leave home or go to sleep.


• Get your computer checked for malware and key logging software.


• Change your passwords frequently and don’t use the same password for everything.


• Limit the amount of information you share about yourself on social networking sites and check your privacy settings.


• Keep your anti-virus software up to date.


• Report any stalking activity on websites to the site administrators.

The important thing to do is not to engage with your stalker but to speak to someone, the police, family member or friend, colleague, your manager or phone the helpline.

The longer the 'stalking' continues the more serious, persistent and frequent it is likely to become. Remember help is available, but you must ask.

Safer Streets

I was delighted to have been invited to attend a meeting of the Safer Streets forum in the New Lodge in North Belfast, yesterday (2 April) .

As Deputy Chief Constable, I welcome the opportunity to meet with community groups to find out how they are working together with police to address those local issues which matter most to local people.

I must say that I was very impressed by the enthusiasm and commitment of everyone who attended - police officers, councillors, statutory and community representatives and ordinary residents, doing extraordinary things. This is an example of the community working with their local neighbourhood policing team, in an area where a few years ago this would just not have been possible.

There were many examples of how the forum is working to tackle anti social behaviour, drugs, criminality and the fear of crime. Everyone is pulling together and playing their part - big or small - in making the people of the New Lodge safer and feel safer.

A key strength of the forum was very clear, tangible outcomes which each of the partners and members reported back - this is a group of people who are doers rather than just talkers.

I am very grateful to Councillor Conor Maskey and the members of the Forum for the invitation to attend yesterday's meeting.

For me, it is a very encouraging example of just how effective Policing with the Community can be.

PSNI and public service rewarded

At the end of a very busy and challenging week, the events I attended over the weekend have reminded me of the privilege I have of being the Deputy Chief Constable of the Police Service of Northern Ireland.

On Friday night the 'Making the Difference Awards' at the Grand Opera House in Belfast acknowledged ordinary people, including some outstandingly courageous children, who had dedicated their time and talents to making their street, community, school or environment a better place.

I was delighted that Dame Mary Peters was acknowledged with a special award for her lifelong commitment to sport and to the community of Northern Ireland. It was a fitting recognition of her public service, marking the 40th anniversary of her momentous Munich Olympics Gold medal win. The evening was also interspersed with outstanding song and dance performances by local young people and of course, our very own May McFetridge.

On Saturday past, I watched with immense pride as the men and women of the Police Service of Northern Ireland received the highest award possible, the Freedom of the Borough, from North Down Borough Council. The PSNI is greatly honoured to have been recognised in this way and North Down is the first council to do so.

Eighty men and women from the PSNI were led through the streets of Bangor by the Pipes and Drums of the PSNI Pipe Band. The old and the new were represented, from an officer with seven months service to one with almost 44 years. I believe the awarding of the Freedom of the Borough for the Police Service, in this our tenth anniversary year, is an endorsement of the policing service that we deliver, every single day, to all the people of Northern Ireland.

The Mayor, Councillor James McKerrow, said publicly that he felt it was the right time to bestow such an honour in recognition of the implementation of the Patten proposals and the development of the type of police service that the Royal Ulster Constabulary wanted to be. In his words "a community based police service serving the whole population equally."

I was delighted that so many people came out onto the streets, in the glorious sunshine, to show their support.

Today, those officers who paraded on Saturday in their best uniform and shiny shoes are back at work delivering a personal, professional and protective policing service. I have no doubt, however, that their sense of pride, as they represented the Police Service, will not be forgotten for the rest of their police career - and probably long after that as well.

St Patrick’s Day Partnership Success

I was delighted to see that there was no repeat of the serious violence seen in previous years in the Holyland area of South Belfast over the St Patrick's Day period.

I know that there were still a small number of isolated incidents, which are totally unacceptable, but the extent of disruption and disorder was nowhere near the scale of that experienced previously.

It is important that I acknowledge the hard work behind the scenes which has taken place over the weeks and months leading up to St Patrick's Day. Operations like this one do not happen by chance and require months of preparation and planning. I applaud the work of our partners from Belfast City Council, Queen’s University, the University of Ulster, SOS Bus and the Belfast City Church who supported the planning process and who worked on the ground with police officers from the Thursday through to St Patrick’s Day. Without their support we simply could not have achieved our goal which was to create a safer environment for all the people of the Holyland area.

There were a small number of arrests, 13 in total. This was not because police did not proactively seek to make arrests but due to the impact the police operation, in partnership with other agencies, had on anti social behaviour and criminality. I welcome the responsible behaviour of most of those in the area over the weekend and the universities for their swift and decisive action taken in respect of the very small number of students who have been arrested.

It is important, however, that I reassure those who live in the area that the police, and partners, will continue to work together to tackle anti social behaviour and criminality throughout the year.

The events of last night following the football match in Londonderry/Derry remind us that peace within and between communities can at times be very fragile and everyone has a responsibility to behave appropriately and within the law. We must all work tirelessly in partnership with individuals, communities, agencies and elected representatives to ensure that everyone enjoys the peace and stability that they rightly deserve.

'One Service Many Careers' event for Young People

This afternoon I was delighted to attend a PSNI Careers Seminar in Cookstown Leisure Centre organised by 'F' district. The seminar was open to year 13 pupils and their Careers Teachers, and 24 schools from across the police district were represented at the event.

The ‘One Service Many Careers’ event was about showcasing the very many opportunities that exist for police officers and support staff to have a career in the Police Service and to allow them to see first hand the equipment and talk to the officers and staff who make up the various disciplines across the Service.

Today was primarily about providing the young people with the knowledge to make informed decisions about a potential career in the wider police family and to show them how they could have the opportunity to make a real and meaningful difference in their communities should they choose to pursue a career in policing.

As each group moved around the various sections they received presentations from officers and support staff, such as Uniformed Police, Tactical Support, Roads Policing and Armed Response, Detectives, Scientific Support, Analysts, Occupational Health, Corporate Communications and Legal Services. Students were shown how the many aspects of the Police Service of Northern Ireland work to support each other, how they join up to provide a service to the community and how they work as many careers in one service.

As I moved around the various sections with some of the young people, I enjoyed the opportunity to talk to as many of them as possible and was greatly encouraged by the questions they asked and the interest they showed. This was a pilot scheme today, and once we have had the opportunity to fully evaluate and debrief the event we hope based on the initial feedback to run a number of similar events across Northern Ireland.

I want to place on record my thanks to the young people and teachers who attended the event toady and to my colleagues in the district and various branches who supported it. It really was a fantastic showcase for the Police Service of Northern Ireland in all of its diversity, and for everything that is good about a career in policing.

Carjacking Update

If you routinely follow my Blog you will know that a few weeks ago I highlighted the issues of 'carjacking'.

Since then, we have established a taskforce to address the issue. A dedicated investigation team has been appointed to pursue all available evidential lines of enquiry in relation to these incidents. Leaflets detailing crime prevention advice have also been circulated by Neighbourhood Policing Teams across the Greater Belfast area.

Over the past number of weeks we searched 14 houses, made 10 arrests and have undertaken three video identification processes, with a further two more planned. As a consequence of our proactive operations we have also made an additional 55 arrests for various offences. The investigation processes against those arrested are at various stages. In addition various items have been seized and are currently being examined to determine potential forensic opportunities.

Whilst I am pleased that progress is being made in the investigation, because of the very welcome developments to vehicle security, criminals intent on stealing cars need to find a way of accessing the car keys. The simple steps, I previously outlined, can help you ensure that you do not become a victim of this type of crime.

While driving:

• Keep your doors locked.


• Keep windows closed or partially closed - enough to prevent someone from reaching in and unlocking doors or grabbing items.


• Do not place items, such as handbags, phones, laptops, in full view on the passenger or back seat. Put them on the floor under your seat, in the glove box, or lock them in the boot.


• If you are forced to stop abruptly, keep your engine running and make sure you have enough room to drive away.


• You MUST stop for the police but it's quite reasonable to ask for identification through a closed window and keep the engine running until you are satisfied.


• Beware of anyone who tries to signal that there's something wrong with your car, unless you know they're right and it is dangerous to drive on.


• If another driver gets out of their vehicle or pedestrian approaches you and you have concerns about their behaviour, flash your lights and sound your horn.


• If you have an alarm, set it off.

When parking or returning to a parked car:

• Park in well lit, busy areas or car park.


• When approaching your parked vehicle, be alert to anyone hanging around and if necessary walk past your car and report anything suspicious to the police immediately.


• If your vehicle has an alarm fitted with a panic button and you think you are being approached suspiciously, activate it.


• As you approach your car have your keys ready, if the car design allows it, unlock the driver's door only and once inside lock you doors.


• When you stop your vehicle, for example to get fuel or purchase a parking ticket, never leave your keys in the ignition or engine running, and always lock your car.


• Keep an eye out for fellow motorists and report anything suspicious immediately to the police.

This week, I know many of you will be enjoying a few days off with your families over the mid term break. Please ensure when you are out that you follow this advice but in particular I would ask that you do not leave your children unattended in vehicles.

We will continue to do what we can to prevent and detect those responsible, but you all must continue to support our efforts by taking these simple but effective precautions.

Policing Board Launch 7th Annual Human Rights Report

I am delighted to be in Derry/Londonderry this morning for the launch of the Policing Boards 7th Human Rights Report 2011.

It is entirely appropriate that the Board should choose to launch such an important report in this City. There has been so much progress in the last number of years to ensure that Human Rights compliant policing is delivered and in my view the Human Rights Act was one of the best things that could have happened to policing in Northern Ireland providing a clear framework for difficult and challenging decisions.

I am pleased that the Board have recognised the impressive implementation record of the 176 recommendations, from the six previous Human Rights reports since 2005, and our ongoing commitment to ensure that a Human Rights culture exists within the organisation.

This Human Rights report makes 16 recommendations relating to training, policy on the storage and retention of DNA and photographs, trends and patterns of complaints, public order policing, use of force, covert policing, victims, treatment of suspects and young people. Over the next few months we will be developing a programme of action to respond to these recommendations. This plan will be overseen and progress monitored by the Board's Human Rights Legal Advisor.

I am also pleased to see the acknowledgement in the report about how the Police Service has fully co-operated and assisted the Board's Human Rights Legal Advisor to provide the necessary level of reassurance that the PSNI is fully compliant with their legal requirements in the very difficult and sensitive area of covert policing. This is an area where for very good reasons we cannot say a lot publicly but the scrutiny of the Board and other organisations, such as the Surveillance Commissioner, should provide communities with a level of reassurance in this often very controversial area.

These reports are also supported by a number of Thematic Reviews during the year. These reviews are important and provide your Police Service with an opportunity to show in detail the work which is being undertaken in important areas such as policing domestic abuse, the use to stop and search powers, children and young people and the forthcoming policing with and for the Lesbian, Gay, Bi-sexual and Transgender people.

I very much look forward to working closely with the Board in the coming year as we work to consider their recommendations in full in support of the delivery of personal, professional and protective policing to all the people of Northern Ireland.

Policing in the Community with the Community

I really enjoy and look forward to the opportunity to visit the officers and staff who deliver frontline policing across Northern Ireland.

The chance to get out on patrol and meet with members of the Community is a welcome break from the challenges and rigour of governance meetings and paperwork. It also serves as a reminder that our central ethos as senior officers is to support effective service delivery to the public.

This morning I met with officers and staff in Ballymena and went on patrol in the town centre and Portglenone area. Human nature is such that many people take the time to tell me what exactly they think of their Police Service. Sometimes they will tell me about things that haven't been done well and it's really important I hear those personal stories first hand. But often they take time to pay tribute to the excellent work which the Service is delivering across every community.

I am not saying that we get everything right all of the time, but when I visit local areas I am reminded just how dedicated and committed your local police officers and staff are as they seek to deliver personal, professional and protective policing.

We simply cannot deliver this on our own and that's why it is absolutely critical that local communities proactively support their local police, by taking the time to tell them what is important to them, and by reporting any information or suspicious activity which might help the police to keep them safer.

Today I heard first hand how people in the Ballymena area are working with their local police to make their community safer and to address those issues which matter most to local people. It's very easy for people to become self consumed and to leave this important task to others.

I thank those of you who whether as individuals, community organisations or statutory partners support and work with your local police. Many of you I know do this out of a sense of vocation and without you, your Police Service simply couldn't do what it does.

Keeping you and your vehicle safe

With two more so called ‘car-jackings’ reported yesterday evening, I fully understand why some motorists may feel vulnerable when out driving alone.

I do not underestimate the impact of these incidents on those people involved, but it is important to highlight that despite these recently reported car-jackings, the likelihood of becoming a victim of this type of crime is slim. Thousands of motorists travel safely along our roads daily.

That said, we are very concerned about the recent spate of incidents. We have increased our resources in the city centre and have implemented a comprehensive pro-active police operation to prevent these crimes taking place, investigate, detect and arrest those responsible and put them before the courts.

The majority of these recent incidents have been ‘opportunist’ in nature – so please follow these simple personal security steps:

While driving:

• Keep your doors locked.


• Keep windows closed or partially closed - enough to prevent someone from reaching in and unlocking doors or grabbing items.


• Do not place items, such as handbags, phones, laptops, in full view on the passenger or back seat. Put them on the floor under your seat, in the glove box, or lock them in the boot.


• If you are forced to stop abruptly, keep your engine running and make sure you have enough room to drive away.


• You MUST stop for the police but it's quite reasonable to ask for identification through a closed window and keep the engine running until you are satisfied.


• Beware of anyone who tries to signal that there's something wrong with your car, unless you know they're right and it is dangerous to drive on.


• If another driver gets out of their vehicle or pedestrian approaches you and you have concerns about their behaviour, flash your lights and sound your horn.


• If you have an alarm, set it off.

When parking or returning to a parked car:

• Park in well lit, busy areas or car park.


• When approaching your parked vehicle, be alert to anyone hanging around and if necessary walk past your car and report anything suspicious to the police immediately.


• If your vehicle has an alarm fitted with a panic button and you think you are being approached suspiciously, activate it.


• As you approach your car have your keys ready, if the car design allows it, unlock the driver's door only and once inside lock you doors.


• When you stop your vehicle, for example to get fuel or purchase a parking ticket, never leave your keys in the ignition or engine running, and always lock your car.


• Keep an eye out for fellow motorists and report anything suspicious immediately to the police.

Your Police Service will continue to do everything it can to prevent incidents of this type occurring, but you can assist us and keep yourself safer, by following the simple steps outlined.