PPS praise for officers involved in Ombudsman case

The Chair of the Police Federation for Northern Ireland, Liam Kelly, says Public Prosecution Service praise for the actions of officers involved in the Ombudsman incident reflects the professional and impartial manner in which they went about their work.

Mr Kelly said: “Officers who were involved in this matter acted professionally without fear or favour. They behaved impeccably and meticulously in the way they went about what was a difficult incident and subsequent investigation.

“It is up to the PPS to explain why it is not proceeding with charges in this case, but it is clear they had nothing but praise for the officers involved.

“The Police Ombudsman has to be held to the highest possible standards with full accountability mechanisms in place. If anything, this Federation would like to see those mechanisms reviewed and strengthened in order to build confidence with police officers and the public.

“The PPS description of the actions of officers on the night of the incident as being conducted with ‘care and sensitivity’ and ‘properly and in good faith’ is a ringing and most welcome endorsement. The officers should feel justifiably proud of the work they did in an objective, professional and impartial manner.

“Under no circumstances should they feel they didn’t behave correctly because of this outcome.”