13/12/2001

Police Service of NI badge unveiled

A new badge for the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) has been unveiled.

The emblem, which was unanimously chosen by the Northern Ireland Policing Board, features a Saint Patrick's Cross surrounded by one symbol each of a harp, crown, shamrock, laurel leaf, torch and scales of justice.

While the Policing Board, which includes members of the SDLP, Ulster Unionist Party and the Democratic Unionist Party, agreed on the new badge, Sinn Fein, who are the only major party which refused to endorse the PSNI by taking its places on the Policing Board, are understood be against the use of the crown on the new emblem.

A spokesman for the Police Federation for Northern Ireland, which represents rank-and-file officer’s said that although the federation has still to consult its members, first impressions were "very favourable".

Meanwhile, the Policing Board is to hold a special meeting early in the New Year to discuss the draft Omagh bombing report from the Northern Ireland Police Ombudsman.

It is understood the Chief Constable Sir Ronnie Flanagan, the Police Ombudsman Nuala O’Loan and relatives of those killed and injured will be invited to attend the meeting. (MB)

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