The Ulster Unionist Party’s Policing Board representative, Alan Chambers MLA, has said that the Police also need the public’s support during the Coronavirus crisis.

Alan Chambers MLA said:

“It has been heartening to see the widespread public displays of support for NHS staff and key workers who are doing their utmost to treat the sick and maintain as much of  normal life as possible.

“As the Ulster Unionist Party’s representative on the Policing Board, I would like to pay tribute to the Police officers who are also playing their part to continue to protect and serve the public in these challenging times.

“I was absolutely disgusted to learn of an attack on a police patrol in Dungannon last night in which a vehicle was damaged and put out of action. This follows a number of recent  incidents including so-called punishment shootings, pipe bomb attacks and suspect devices, indicating ‘business as usual’ for criminal gangs.    

“The police can only succeed in their task of keeping people and communities safe if they receive the wholehearted support of the general public. They also need the support of the judiciary and the courts.

“Earlier this week a court in Nottingham handed down a one year sentence to an individual who admitted two counts of assaulting an emergency worker, having spat at two police officers whilst claiming to have coronavirus. It only took three days from arrest to sentencing. I would like to see courts in Northern Ireland take note of this and  heed the words of District Judge Leo Pyle, who said: "It was in the public interest to deal with the matter sooner rather than later and the court will not flinch to protect officers."

“Clearly that particular court understood that the seriousness of these offences required a sentence that acts as a meaningful deterrent, especially at a time when our emergency services are needed more than ever.

“I trust that our local courts in Northern Ireland will react with similar speed and severity should the need arise. This is no time for weakness.”