I am delighted that the Policing Board has come to a decision on the appointment of George Hamilton as the new Chief Constable of the PSNI.
I wish George all the very best as he takes up this important position and builds on the important work carried out by the current Chief Constable, Matt Baggott.
The PSNI has a great deal to be proud of. Like all police forces it must deliver the best policing service possible at a time of unprecedented pressure on public finances. But the PSNI and its officers also face sensitivities, dangers and public order situations that make the challenge unique in the UK. This is a time for strong leadership and I am confident that George Hamilton will provide this.
As a government we remain committed to ensuring that the Chief Constable has the support he needs to keep the community safe. The significant extra funding of £231 million that this Government will provide between 2011 and 2016 is playing a vital role in helping the PSNI to tackle the terrorist threat.