US Special Envoy visits Policing Board


The Chairman and Vice Chairman of the Northern Ireland Policing Board have met with US Special Envoy, Dr Paula Dobriansky and US Consul General to Belfast, Dean Pittman, at the Board's Belfast Headquarters in Clarendon Dock.

At the meeting, Dr Dobriansky was updated on the reconstitution of the Policing Board and a number of policing issues.

Speaking after the meeting, Board Chairman Professor Desmond Rea, said: "Since her appointment Dr Dobriansky has taken a close interest in the work of the Board and at today's meeting we were able to brief her on the positive progress over the last few weeks in respect of policing and the work of the Board.


"There are still many challenges ahead for policing but there are also real opportunities to build on the substantial progress to date. I was able to tell the Special Envoy that both the political and independent members of this Board have indicated their intention to work for all the people of Northern Ireland in seeking to meet the Board’s objectives.

"This new Board will continue to ensure for all the people of Northern Ireland an accountable, effective, efficient and impartial Police Service.

"On a global scale Northern Ireland offers a real beacon of hope to troubled areas and Dr Dobriansky agreed that lessons learnt here can be applied elsewhere."

At the meeting Dr Dobriansky welcomed the fact that the Board now had full support from across the political spectrum; and paid tribute to all those who have been involved in the work of the Board.

Sir Desmond also paid tribute to the support given to policing and the peace process from the US, he said: "We have come a long way in a relatively short space of time. The US administration and a range of US audiences have taken a close interest in Northern Ireland affairs and the support given has been much appreciated.

"The Board is grateful to all those who have been prepared to voice support and give encouragement to policing in Northern Ireland. Particular recognition must be given to US Presidents’ past and present Special Envoys to Northern Ireland.

"I would also like to put on record our appreciation to the outgoing US Consul in Belfast Dean Pittman. During his time here Dean has made an important contribution and we thank him for his interest and support for the work of the Board."

(SP/KMcA)