RUC to survey its full-time reserve

The Royal Ulster Constabulary is to survey its 2,400 full-time reserve officers in a bid to help them plan for careers outside the police service.

The aim is to draw together information on career aspirations, skills base and training needs that would enable a package of practical support for RUC officers in preparation for the phasing out of the full-time reserve.

The government's revised implementation plan on the reform of policing in Northern Ireland recommends the phasing out of the full-time reserve as "the prevailing security situation and policing requirements allow".

The survey has been initiated by a group which draws its membership from the Northern Ireland Office, the Police Authority for Northern Ireland, the Police Federation, which represents officers up to the rank of Chief Inspector, and the RUC's own Voluntary Severance Support Unit (VSSU).

Superintendent Wesley Wilson, who heads up the VSSU, said: “As policing moves into a new future it is critical for the RUC to treat those officers who will be leaving with dignity and respect and to offer them support. We need to provide them with advice and counselling, training and rehabilitation.

“No decision has been made on a date for the phasing out of the full-time reserve, but we need to be planning ahead to develop the best possible support package for those who will be leaving. And if we are to do that effectively, it is vital that we have the information base which the proposed survey will provide.” (AMcE)