Cross-Border Policing Seminar Addresses Issues In Multicultural Ireland

A cross-border seminar has been held for officers to discuss issues for policing in an ever-changing multicultural environment.

Held yesterday, Thursday, 26 January, at Dromantine, Newry, the 'Challenge for Change in Multicultural Society' seminar explored issues which influence Policing, both north and south of the border.

It is understood the issues discussed among police practitioners included the rapid transformation of policing and looked ahead to the challenging journey which still remains. 

Following the meeting, An Garda Síochána Divisional Officer for Louth/Meath, Chief Superintendent Sean Ward said: "The seminar that took place involving members of An Garda Síochána from Louth and the PSNI from Newry, Mourne and Down facilitated the exchange of information and the development of best practice in respect of policing challenges in a multi cultural society with particular emphasis on the border area.

"There is no doubt that the welcome arrival of new communities in recent times in both jurisdictions has created similar issues for both policing organisations. In this context, today's event has provided a great opportunity for members of An Garda Síochána and the PSNI to learn from each other through various presentations and group discussions with the ultimate objective of continually developing and improving the policing service provided to our new and diverse communities. This builds on the extensive good work already being carried out by both police services in building relationships with new communities."

PSNI District Commander for Newry, Mourne and Down, Superintendent Paul Reid, added: "This was a wonderful opportunity which allowed police officers from both sides of the border to learn more about the challenges faced by their near neighbours, the innovative approaches to those challenges and successes, to take part in group discussions, and benefit from that sharing.

"It was a great opportunity for officers to have time to reflect on how they go about their daily business, the impact that they can have on others and to explore how they might learn from each other to improve the service they provide to a diverse set of communities."

(MH)