O’Loan back in for third term as DPP chairman

After all, it will be his third occupancy of the law and order ‘hot-seat’ since the DPP began back in 2003!

But the MLA reckons that the Partnership has grown in stature and experience since its inception.

He said: “The DPP has now built up a successful record of consulting the community on its views on police and performance, and of holding the police to account in relation to its agreed plans. Councillors and Independent members work very well together on these tasks. I am pleased once again to lead the DPP in that work.”

And he welcomed the appointment of Mrs. Mary Cruikshank, an independent member of the Partnership, as his deputy.

Commenting on the contribution of Independent Members of the DPP, he said: “one of the legislative changes that took place in 2005, was an Order that allowed an Independent Member to hold the office of Vice Chair, which had previously been reserved for Councillors.

“I am of the opinion that this was in recognition of the contribution that Independent Members made in early years of the DPPs, when individuals, some of whom were affiliated to my party, did so at considerable personal risk. I fully recognise the work and commitment of Ballymena’s Independent Members, who have been a critical element in the partnership’s achievements.

“Therefore I am please to welcome Mrs Mary Cruikshank as my fellow office bearer, who has been elected to serve as Vice Chair of the DPP for this term of office. I have no doubt that we will work well together for benefit of all residents and workers in the Borough.’

Mrs Cruikshank has been an Independent Member of the DPP since December 2005. Prior to her retirement she worked as a health professional in the Borough for many years.

Being a farmer’s wife she has a keen interest in the concerns of the local rural community.

She said: “I would like to thank the incoming Chairman, Councillor O’Loan, for his words of encouragement, and also my fellow Independent Members, who have been supportive before, during and after the election. I welcome the challenge of the office of Vice Chair and would encourage anyone who is concerned about policing to bring it to our attention.”

Mrs. Cruikshank emphasised the importance of a good working relationship between the PSNI and the community which they serve, saying:“I would appeal to anyone who has information that could be useful to the police, to please lift the phone and ring the non-emergency number 0845 600 8000, or if you wish to remain anonymous use the Crimestoppers number, 0800 555 111.

“You could also use the services of your local DPP Member, all the contact details are on the website www.districtpolicing.com, who would bring your concern to the attention of the police. Or if you prefer, contact the DPP staff, who are based at the Council Offices on the Galgrom Road, telephone 2566 0441. The local police service will benefit from your information, and if they can respond to your concerns we will build and sustain confidence in the PSNI.”

Looking to the future, Cllr. O’Loan said many changes were in the offing.

He noted: “With the Justice Bill currently passing through the Assembly, I am conscious that, in all probability, this period of office will mark the end of the DPP as we have come to know it, as the intention is to replace it with a new ‘Policing and Community Safety Partnership’. I hope to be involved in the development of the new partnership as I have been in the past with the DPP and the CSP.”