NW stationopeninghours areslashed

The DUP says it’s deeply concerned opening hours are to be slashed by up to 50 per cent at police stations across the North West.
David Ramsey. INLS0914-123KMDavid Ramsey. INLS0914-123KM
David Ramsey. INLS0914-123KM

Waterside Councillor David Ramsey expressed concern on behalf of the party after the PSNI announced it was reducing public opening hours at nearly all its Station Enquiry Offices to a maximum of 12 hours each day as part of its ongoing efforts to make significant budget cuts.

Only Strand Road and Musgrave Station in Belfast escaped. At Waterside the opening hours were cut by two and at Strabane and Limavady the opening hours were slashed from 24 hours to 12.

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“We are deeply concerned that the hours are being reduced at police stations in the Waterside, Strabane and Limavady,” said the Derry City and Strabane District Councillor.

“At the same time we are encouraged by the PSNI’s promise that it remains committed to community policing and that this will remain one if its main priorities,” he added.

Chief Inspector Tony Callaghan, the Foyle Area Commander, said the current pattern of usage supported maintaining the status quo at Strand Road.

“Despite the changes across Northern Ireland, police will continue to remain accessible through the 101 non-emergency number.

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“Policing remains a 24-hour, seven days a week operation and we will continue to be there at people’s time of need,” he said.

From December 1, Limavady, Magherafelt, Strabane and Waterside enquiry offices will open between 8am and 8pm seven days a week.