Dissidents Attack Policing Board

22.11.2009

As part of our ongoing project on young people, policing, and human rights, the WIMPS Crew have just interviewed chairman of the Northern Ireland Policing Board, Barry Gilligan.  The interview was at the NIPB headquarters on Thursday 19th November.  Two days later, a van - apparently packed with explosives - was driven through a barrier and parked in front of the building - close to busy pubs and local homes.  Read the BBC Report on the incident here.

In the interview WIMPS covered a whole range of issues with Mr Gilligan, including the ongoing threats of dissident groups.  He said that the threats are real and serious and that they take their lead from the Chief Constable and his advice.  Traveling around Northern Ireland interviewing young people, Public Achievement has found that whilst many young people have very negative experiences of policing, most are willing and ready to engage on the issue, including talking directly to the police and policing authorities.

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