PSNI to get extra funds in plan to tackle paramilitary crime

The PSNI is to strengthen resources dedicated to tackling paramilitary-linked criminality as part of a Stormont plan to eradicate such groups.

The strategy also includes a pledge from the Irish and UK governments to “consult to consider” short-term weapon decommissioning mechanisms if required.

The prioritisation of PSNI funding to tackle paramilitary criminality and the potential of spending more on community policing are among measures in the Executive’s blueprint for tackling paramilitarism. The document is a response to an independent panel report that recommended actions to put an end to such organisations.

The panel was set up as part of the Fresh Start agreement which was struck between the DUP, Sinn Féin and the Irish and UK governments last year.

The panel, which made 43 recommendations, said paramilitary activity had greatly reduced over the course of the peace process, with the main groups remaining on ceasefire, but some members and former members continued to engage in violence, intimidation and other crime.

Six weeks after the report was published, the Stormont Executive has now revealed a five-year action plan to implement its recommendations. The steps will be supported by £50 million jointly funded by Stormont and the UK government.