PSNI aims to raise officer ranks from lowest level ever

The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) will today launch an officer recruitment drive aimed at boosting numbers from an all-time low.

It said its “recovery plan” would need £200 million in additional finance From Stormont.

Chief Constable John Boucher wants a service with 7,000 officers by 2028 – it currently has 6,300.

He recently warned the PSNI “A Watershed Moment” After years of funding problems.

The new campaign will be the first significant drive to recruit apprentices from 2021 onwards.

He will be paid a starting salary of £34,000, which includes a £4,000 allowance commonly referred to as “danger money”.

Hiring has slowed dramatically in recent years and departures have not kept pace.

Mr Boucher is leading the campaign while waiting for approval of additional funding from the Northern Ireland Executive.

Last week the PSNI told a committee of MPs it needed £200 million over the next five years.

As well as the new officers, it will pay for 400 more civilian employees.

There has been a debate going on for a long time regarding police numbers.

New decade new approach deal in 2020 Gave political commitment to the PSNI of 7,500 officers, as envisaged under police reforms two decades ago.

Last year the PSNI said there was “a compelling case” for 8,500 officers, based on comparisons with other UK police services.

The strength of the officer is an operational matter for the Chief Constable.

He pays for them from his annual budget allocation from the Department of Justice.

Justice Minister Naomi Long has said there is an urgent need to “stabilize and improve” the current numbers.