Federation demands answers and action over major security and data breach

The Chair of the Police Federation for Northern Ireland, Liam Kelly, has expressed dismay and anger over a potential major security breach of officers’ details by the PSNI. 

Surnames, staff numbers, roles and where officers are based was published as part of an FOI request.

Mr Kelly is insisting an urgent inquiry is required and wants to hear from the Chief Constable and his senior colleagues the steps they intend taking to limit the damage to protect identities.

Mr Kelly said: “This is a breach of monumental proportions. Even if it was done accidentally, it still represents a data and security breach that should never have happened.

“Rigorous safeguards ought to have been in place toprotect this valuable information which, if in the wrong hands, could do incalculable damage. 

“The men and women I represent are appalled by this breach. They are shocked, dismayed and justifiably angry. Like me, they are demanding action to address this unprecedented disclosure of sensitive information.

“We have many colleagues who do everything possible to protect their police roles. We’re fortunate that the PSNI spreadsheet didn’t contain officer and staff home addresses, otherwise we would be facing a potentially calamitous situation.

“Inadequate or poor oversight of FOI procedures must be addressed and addressed urgently. New safeguards are obviously required to prevent this from ever happening again.”