The PSNI Chief Constable Jon Boutcher has welcomed First Minister Michelle O'Neill, Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly and Justice Minister Naomi Long at today's, Friday 9th February, attestation ceremony held at the Police College in Garnerville.

Six officers attested in front of an audience of both friends and family, before embarking on their career in policing in the near future.

Speaking at the event, Chief Constable Jon Boutcher said: "As well as an extremely proud and special day for our newest police officers, who have attested as Constables, we were pleased to welcome the First Minister, Deputy First Minister and Justice Minister who attended today's event.

"This will be the last group of officers who will attest until October 2024 and we look forward to receiving positive news from the NI Executive that will allow the Police Service of Northern Ireland to be resourced to the levels required to continue to Keep People Safe.

"First Minster, Deputy First Minister and Justice Minister, are already aware of our budgetary situation and we welcome the opportunity to work with them to find solutions and halt the decline in officer and staff numbers across the service."

First Minister Michelle O'Neill also said: "I offer my congratulations to all officers graduating today. It was good to meet them and their families as they embark on their policing careers. I wish each of them well as they play their part in bringing about safer communities."

Deputy First Minister, Emma Little-Pengelly said: "Joining the ranks of the PSNI is both a rewarding and challenging career and I wish today's graduates the very best for the future. Everyone who wears the uniform of the PSNI works tirelessly to keep people safe across Northern Ireland. We are in their debt for the level of service they provide to society and we must never forget, or take that commitment to keeping us safe, for granted."

Justice Minister Naomi Long said: "I am pleased to be here to mark the achievement of these student police officers. I can see that those of you who have chosen policing as their career have demonstrated an enthusiasm and dedication second to none.

"Policing is more than a job. It is serving your community during some of the most difficult experiences of their daily lives. I warmly congratulate you on your achievement today and wish you every success in what I hope will be a long and rewarding career in the Police Service of Northern Ireland."