SDLP and SF clash over policing reforms
The SDLP and Sinn Fein have again exchanged angry words over policing reforms in the North.
The SDLP, on a visit to Tony Blair in London, claimed responsibility for further parliamentary changes to policing, while Sinn Fein said they were nothing new.
This row is becoming more and more bitter as both parties know policing will be a critical issue in next May’s assembly elections.
The SDLP leader, Mark Durkan said existing flaws and omissions in the law would be put right.
The SDLP had, he said, ensured before it took its places on the Police Board that the British government made solemn and firm commitments on policing legislation.
Sinn Féin spokesman on policing, Gerry Kelly, said there was nothing new in the proposed changes.
He said progress was due to pressure from Sinn Fein and there were continuing problems as the changes did not bring the police into line with the Patten Report.
