PSNI ACC Releases Flag Protest Statement

The PSNI’s Assistant Chief Constable has released a statement regarding the ongoing protests over the union flag at Belfast City Hall.

ACC Will Kerr explained: "Despite the ongoing policing operation linked to protests, we remain fully committed to delivering a safe and secure Christmas for all the people of Northern Ireland.

The PSNI said it was continuing to work alongside the protests across Northern Ireland to keep all main arterial routes open in order to minimise disruption to the public.

It said: "Although we are maintaining a strong presence across Northern Ireland to deal with protests and any incidents of disorder, we are still continuing to deliver normal, everyday policing.

"Our Christmas policing plan, Operation Season's Greetings, is very much ongoing as we continue to do everything we can to help keep people safe in their homes, on the roads and when out socialising this festive season."

ACC Will Kerr added: "We will continue to take those extra steps to deter and detect criminals exploiting this busy season for their own ends and we are putting special focus on preventing burglaries, keeping party-goers safe and preventing road traffic collisions.

"We want people to go out and enjoy themselves and we will do our bit to keep you safe. We are committed to delivering a visible and effective policing service across Northern Ireland and we will continue to do so, not just now and in the run up to Christmas, but at all times."

(IT)