02/03/2006

Sammy Wilson to quit Policing Board

DUP Assembly member Sammy Wilson has revealed that he is to quit his role on the Policing Board when the government appoints a new team next month.

This announcement comes after Secretary of State Peter Hain, wrote to each of the main political parties asking for their nominations for representatives for the Board.

Mr Wilson today said that he would not be on the list of names submitted by his party as he wishes to concentrate on his Westminster duties.

The East Antrim MP said that given his Westminster duties, it would be impossible to fully carry out his role on the Policing Board, as it would require his full-time attention.

It is expected that fellow DUP Assembly member, Arlene Foster, will replace him.

It is also likely that SDLP MP Eddie Mc Grady will give up his position on the Board, and party member Joe Byrne will no longer eligible to sit on the board as a political nominee. However it is understood he has sought a place as an independent member.

Former UUP Minister Sam Foster will also forfeit his position due to his retirement, and UUP members Alan McFarland and Lord Kilclooney will not be seeking re-nomination.

Yesterday, Sinn Fein also declined the offer due to their opposition of policing in Northern ireland.

Secretary of State, Peter Hain, said yesterday that he intends the new Policing Board to be in operation as of April 1.

(EF/SP)

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