The RUC Chief Constable, Sir Ronnie Flanagan, has welcomed the inauguration of the new independent Police Ombudsman, who took up office yesterday. Ms Nuala O'Loan will head a team of 40 independent investigators whose task will be to examine complaints against the police.
Pledging his "whole-hearted" support, Sir Ronnie said the new office would help to strengthen public trust and make people more confident their complaints would be dealt with impartially. "I think it can only raise public confidence in the system of investigation of complaints against police officers. I have always supported it and I whole-heartedly support it now." The Northern Ireland Security Minister, Mr Adam Ingram, described the setting up of the office as a "big step forward". Ms O'Loan said the new system, proposed by the former Hong Kong governor, Mr Chris Patten, would be independent of police and government. It was the most far-reaching initiative of its kind in the world, she added.
"Internationally, the concept of the police investigating themselves is being rejected. We have a combination of more independence, powers and responsibilities than any other organisation I know."
Nationalists have voiced concern that about 3,000 filed complaints would still be investigated by the RUC, with the ombudsman taking on only new complaints. Ms O'Loan said some people had delayed filing complaints until her office was working.
A Sinn Fein MLA, Mr Gerry Kelly, voiced concern that her access to past intelligence reports would be restricted by the British government.
The ombudsman will be able to direct the Chief Constable to take disciplinary action against any officer up to the rank of chief superintendent.