PRESS STATEMENT – PRESS STATEMENT – PRESS STATEMENT

IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SDLP MLA BURNS: WELCOMES DROP IN CRIME
 

Welcoming the reduction in recorded crime statistics recently published by the PSNI, South Antrim SDLP Assembly Member Thomas Burns said:

“The fact that recorded crime in the North is at its lowest point in nine years is to be welcomed. The fact that it also surpasses the targets set in the Policing Plan is a positive indicator of the real progress that is being made. However the drop in recorded crimes of 10.5% from last year stands alongside a drop in the overall clearance rate of crimes. This is a cause for concern and it will be an issue that the Board and the PSNI will have to address.

“Breaking down the figures we can see encouraging signs with reference to violent and hate crimes although a number of high profile attacks in recent weeks show how much still needs to be done in this area. This will involve the PSNI and local communities working together to address and combat the problem.

Building on the success and identifying the places where improvement can be made will be the task of the Board and the PSNI over the next few months. Working together in a progressive and innovative way should continue to be the hallmarks of the new beginning to policing in the North. This is the best way to show those elements who are still opposed to change and blind to the wishes of the community that change continues to happen and they cannot stop it.
 

ENDS