High level of support for police

Growing support for the police among Catholics has been welcomed by DUP Councillor Philip Weir.

A member of the local District Policing Partnership, Dr Weir said: “The 2010 District Policing Partnership consultation by the NISRA Central Survey Unit has reinforced a high level of support for the police right across the community. The fact that only 14 per cent of Roman Catholics indicated a lack of confidence in the police is relatively encouraging. Indeed on some indicators support was stronger amongst Roman Catholics than Protestants.

"Clearly significant efforts have been made to promote acceptance of the PSNI particularly within republican areas. The survey findings indicate that it is important to ensure these endeavours do not become excessive and risk leaving behind loyalist estates.

"The key issues respondents to the survey wanted tackled were overwhelmingly antisocial behaviour and burglary. This was the case across all sections of the community, all age ranges and both sexes. The next most common concerns were drug crime and traffic offences."

In Craigavon 730 residents replied, of 3,743 written to, giving a response rate of 20%.

Those who completed the survey believed that the focus of the police activities should be particularly on responding promptly to emergencies, prevention of crime and more visible patrolling.

The survey found 83% were not aware there was a dedicated neighbourhood team for their area and 97% did not recognise local officers.

The majority of respondents were dissatisfied with the level of patrolling in their area. 58% of people felt the police were doing a good or adequate job while 25% said their performance was poor.

Dr Weir said: "A small minority continue to oppose democracy and the rule of law. The community across Craigavon must be unambiguous and forthright in their opposition to terrorism. The police must be assisted by those in all communities to maintain peace and stability."