Report 'calls for major change' at PSNI college
A report has highlighted a need for “major change” in the operations of the Northern Ireland Police College, the Policing Board has said.
It received the findings of a comprehensive, independent review and has discussed them with Chief Constable George Hamilton.
The report was produced by C/Supt Alan Gibson of Police Scotland and examined a number of keys areas at Garnerville in Belfast:
The content of the student officer programme
The culture within the Police College
The verification of Examinations and Assessments
Accreditation and Relationship with UlsterUniversity
Leadership and Governance
According to the Policing Board, it revealed that “the organisational and behavioural standards that the board expects from all the staff of the PSNI are not being consistently met in the college”.
The board said it provided “some assurance” on aspects of the areas of police training examined, but also highlights areas of practice where “major change is immediately needed”.
A spokesperson continued: “Findings that some activities and the pervading culture in the college are not conducive to a safe and professional learning environment is a matter of most serious concern to all of the board members and that is why following receipt of the report, significant time has been invested by the board in considering plans for moving forward.
“The review and recommendations are designed to make sure that the approach to PSNI training is fit for purpose, incorporates best training practice and allows the PSNI to keep pace with modern and progressive training approaches.
“The board agrees that there is now the opportunity to really invest in the college, make the changes necessary to redress the issues uncovered and achieve this vision.
“The Chief Constable has provided the board with an implementation plan that effects this change within the college and those that impact on the wider organisation.”
The spokesperson added that a further special meeting is scheduled for Thursday to discuss final implementation arrangements with the Chief Constable and future recruitment plans.
Author and journalist Brian Rowan said: “You see in the detail of this report the challenge is to get policing into line with the thinking of 'the new beginning'.
“Some of what has been happening at the police college is clearly out of step.
“Fifteen years since the PSNI stepped on to the stage, there is more to be done by the police and communities if that new beginning is to be realised.
“A special meeting of the Policing Board will be held this Thursday to discuss the many recommendations for change and, crucially, the timescale for implementation.”