Alliance Policing Board member John Blair has said it is vital efforts are maintained and stepped up to ensure the PSNI is representative of the community it serves and represents, as he marked the 20th anniversary of the service.

Speaking ahead of the latest public policing board meeting, Mr Blair said it was important to recognise the effort of serving officers and all those who have transformed local policing over the last 20 years, and remember those who have given their lives in protecting the public.

He added: “All of us involved in politics and public life more widely have a role to play in building confidence in policing and creating as diverse and inclusive police service as possible.

“This should be done through continued and public engagement with police, encouraging robust discussion on policing matters and maximising community involvement in policing structures such as PCSPs. When there are difficulties, discussion must be respectful and ever watchful of those inclusive and representativeness goals.

“The PSNI, together with the Policing Board and Police Ombudsman’s Office have made great strides in bringing Northern Ireland from a darker to a better and safer place and all of those involved in these bodies should be especially thanked this week.”