DUP Leader Calls For NI Police Chief To Resign

DUP leader Sir Jeffrey Donaldson has said it is “time for change” at the head of the PSNI.

Speaking to media at Stormont Castle after a meeting between the parties and the head of the Northern Ireland Civil Service Jayne Brady, Sir Jeffrey called for Chief Constable Simon Byrne to resign.

The announcement comes after a High Court judge ruled that a decision to take action against two officers was unlawful.

Sir Jeffrey said: "I think that the developments this week with the high court ruling on the judicial review brought by two PSNI constables has raised some very serious issues, and I think this goes to the heart of public confidence in our police service and the senior leadership.

"I think the key issue for the Policing Board now is, who is best placed to win back that confidence because there's no doubt there have been a series of situations and events that have harmed public confidence, and not only public confidence, I speak to many serving police officers who themselves are very concerned about the leadership they're getting.

"I think the key question for the Policing Board today is who is best placed to lead the police service in winning back public confidence and addressing the very real issues and problems that have arisen in recent weeks that have undermined public confidence.

"We have come to the view that it is time for change."