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Senior police post: Policing Board rejects Sinn Féin criticism | |
(about 5 hours later) | |
Northern Ireland's Policing Board has rejected Sinn Féin claims that the process to recruit a new deputy chief constable was compromised. | |
The board, which holds the Police Service of Northern Ireland to account, said it had recommended to the justice minister who should be appointed. | |
Only two candidates had applied. | |
Sinn Féin Policing Board member Caitríona Ruane said she would withdraw from the selection panel because "the process may have been compromised". | |
The post became vacant when Judith Gillespie stepped down in March. | The post became vacant when Judith Gillespie stepped down in March. |
Mr Ruane said in a statement on Monday: "In light of the need for absolute transparency in all public appointments, and to protect the Policing Board's integrity, I believe the best course of action would be to begin a new recruitment process." | Mr Ruane said in a statement on Monday: "In light of the need for absolute transparency in all public appointments, and to protect the Policing Board's integrity, I believe the best course of action would be to begin a new recruitment process." |
The deputy's position has been filled since Ms Gillespie's departure on a temporary basis. | |
The Policing Board had expected a high level of interest from throughout the UK when it was advertised as a permanent position. | |
In a statement on Monday, a spokesman said: "The recruitment competition has been subject to extensive independent oversight and scrutiny at all stages. | |
"Any suggestion that the process may have been compromised is firmly rejected." |