Chief Constable Simon Byrne blasted for PSNI’s ‘toothless’ approach to enforcing Covid-19 regulations in NI - DUP MLA Mervyn Storey

The demand came from DUP North Antrim MLA and Policing Board member Mervyn Storey who said: “As the Executive faces the unenviable task of responding to the latest rise in Covid-19 cases many in the public are rightly asking how they can be sure that any new rules will be enforced more effectively than those already in place.

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“In many parts of Northern Ireland there is widespread concern that the PSNI approach to enforcing the rules has been inconsistent and toothless.

“The perception, rightly or wrongly, is that breaches by republicans and the GAA are deemed untouchable.

“Numerous investigations have been launched - but how many have actually resulted in files going to the PPS?”

Mr Storey add that the Chief Constable “must realise that this isn’t about protecting the image of his organisation - it is about protecting lives”.

“We have heard a great deal about the four Es - Engage, Explain, Encourage, Enforce - but where is the hard and fast evidence that this tiered response by the police is actually preventing repeat offending.

“I have written to Simon Byrne to press for clear answers.

“As the number of cases rises, policing activity in every community must be ramped up.

“It isn’t good enough for those in senior ranks within the police to say they take their lead from the Executive table on what areas of enforcement to prioritise.

“The PSNI has a statutory duty to protect the public and uphold the rule of law. It is time they finally stepped up to mark and delivered a clear message that those intent on breaking the law and putting the vulnerable at risk will simply not be tolerated.”