‘Non-existent’ police criticised

‘Non-existent’ police criticised

21 October 2015

POLICE have been urged to improve links with local politicians and community officials to help tackle issues of concern across the district.

The call has been issued by Rowallane councillor Billy Walker who has expressed disappointment that issues he and others have raised with police have not been dealt with effectively.

Councillor Walker said telephone calls and emails about a number of issues have not been responded to, claiming that since the restructuring of local policing “officers have been non-existent.”

The Rowallane politician says he is very concerned about the “lack of communication between politicians and the police” and wants the matter urgently addressed.

He explained issues raised recently by politicians and community groups include problems with boy racers in Ballynahinch and concerns around young people taking drugs in Killyleagh. 

“In the past, councillors had mobile contact details for community police officers and duty sergeants which meant the PSNI could be alerted to issues and take action. I now find my calls and emails are not responded to,” he claimed.

Councillor Walker said following a recent conversation with Newry and Mourne District Commander Simon Walls he was assured these numbers would be provided.

“No contact numbers have been provided to date. What I view as the breakdown in communication between politicians, community representatives and the police must be urgently addressed,” he continued.

“It’s my understanding community officials in Killyleagh were told by officers that the drugs issue they recently voiced concern about was a ‘social matter, not a police matter.’ This is something which will concern many people. When police are asked for help people want to see that help provided.”

Councillor Walker confirmed his concerns will be raised at the next meeting of Newry, Mourne and Down Council’s Policing and Community Safety Partnership.

Superintendent Walls said he was sorry councillor Walker is disappointed in the communication with police. He explained before the PSNI restructure took place, he met with a number of politicians to explain the new structures and “asked for their patience as we worked to get our processes in place.”

Confirming the Rowallane politician will be contacted to discuss his concerns, Mr Walls said the PSNI is committed to working with local representatives and the introduction of local policing teams dedicates greater resources to community policing. 

“Our new structures in Newry, Mourne and Down have been in place from September 28 and all officers are working hard to establish links, relationships and an understanding of the issues and concerns in their local areas of responsibility,” continued the police chief.

“In relation to local issues, we are committed to tackling these concerns with the appropriate agencies and local communities. We tackle illegal drugs through enforcement and education. However, it is a wider societal issue that requires input from other agencies, community groups and schools to address the reasons why people turn to drugs.”

Mr Walls added: “We will continue with our efforts to build meaningful and effective relationships with our local communities and would ask local representatives and community leaders for their patience and support.”