Oral question asked in the House of Commons, by Iris Robinson (Democratic Unionist Party). It was answered on Tuesday, 7 February 2006 on behalf of the Northern Ireland Grand Committee.

PSNI

Question: I thank the Minister for her answer, but the reality on the ground is a feeling of increasing lawlessness, particularly around the Ards district command unit area. There also is a growing feeling of isolation in the local rural communities. Will she indicate what measures she intends to take in order to address the problems faced by a profoundly under-resourced police service in the constituency? The latest incident in Newtonards was the savage beating and stabbing of Mr. Grant Dugan, who, thankfully, is well on the way to recovering from that horrendous attack. Will the Minister lend her support for the introduction of CCTV in Newtonards town centre? Will she also agree that the responsibility for the operation and maintenance of the system lies with the Police Service of Northern Ireland, and that none of its costs will fall in the remit of Ards borough council?

Answer: It would be a matter for Ards borough council if it wishes to contribute to CCTV in the area—a number of councils do so already. I understand the hon. Lady's concerns about crime in her area; every hon. Member has equal concern. The way in which police resources are distributed in Northern Ireland is an operational matter for the Chief Constable, and neither I nor my hon. Friend the Under-Secretary can give directions to the Chief Constable about where he should put his resources. However, I am sure that he will take note of the hon. Lady's comments and that he wants to ensure that throughout Northern Ireland there are adequate policing levels to deal with any incidents of lawlessness.

Secondary information

Type: Oral question
Reference: NIGC c5-6
Session: 2005-06
Oral question type: 1st Supplementary
Chamber / Committee: House of Commons Grand Committees
Subjects: CCTV Neighbourhood policing Finance Police Service of Northern Ireland Rural areas Newtownards
Contains statistics: Yes