Police launch Facebook page

In Armagh, Banbridge, Craigavon and Newry and Mourne the Facebook pages will provide local residents and businesses with another channel to engage with officers and contribute to the policing debate.

The four pages have attracted more than 1700 followers and the public are now being invited to like their local page and follow policing through social media.

Craigavon Area Commander, Chief Inspector Anthony McNally explained how Facebook can act as a timely, two-way channel of communication.

He said: “The new Facebook page for Craigavon, formerly Brownlow NPT Facebook page, will give us the opportunity to give timely, relevant information to the community which will ultimately help them to stay safe and informed.

PLATFORMS

“While many people still rely on ‘traditional’ media outlets, such as local newspapers, TV and radio for information about what is happening in the area around them, many others use social media platforms to keep informed. As a police service we recognise the need and benefit of communicating and engaging in discussions through this medium.

“Officers will update the content of the pages while they are on-duty and on the beat in communities.

“We also welcome comments that local people may want to post on the site and while we will do our best to answer questions and reply to posts, the sites aren’t monitored 24/7. They are not intended as a means for reporting crime and people are encouraged to continue to use the 0845 600 8000 number to report incidents in their area or to dial 999 in an emergency.”

If you would like to follow policing in your local area you can like us at www.facebook.com/psni.Craigavon