West Tyrone Sinn Fein Sinn Féin -- Building an Ireland of Equals

McColgan welcomes policing and justice powers devolution powers

Published: 9 February, 2010

Speaking on the deal that secures the devolution of policing and justice powers Sinn Féin Omagh council group leader Martin McColgan had this to say:

""The Agreement announced on Friday is a very significant step forward for all the people of Ireland.

"Republicans have demonstrated their patience in recent times over the issue of policing. People living in the north of Ireland and indeed the Omagh district are entitled to an accountable, impartial policing service. All the work of recent weeks and years is about ensuring that this is achieved.

"Included in the deal outlined is a date for the long overdue transfer of policing and justice powers from London to Belfast. That is a major achievement. However we must ensure that the devolution of policing and justice powers is delivering results for ordinary people, and I believe it will. We must ensure that policing services are delivered equitably and efficiently for all communities and that the justice system is independent and fully rights-based.

"Other aspects of the deal including the commitment to work on the outstanding issues from the St. Andrew's Agreement must be welcomed. There are issues around All Ireland structures. There are also issues around Human Rights, Equality and Victims which remain outstanding.

"We must also build upon the agreed process to progress the rights of Irish Language speakers.CRÍOCH