APPENDIX 16
Memorandum submitted by Justice Patrick
Henry
As a member of the New York State Judiciary
and former District Attorney of New York I have spent years observing,
examining and evaluating law enforcement agencies both here and
abroad. When the Office of Police Ombudsman for Northern Ireland
came into existence it was observed with enthusiasm by those of
us who had a professional interest in police services in Northern
Ireland. Colleagues and I made many visits to Northern Ireland
to confer with various government and civic leaders. Included
in our visits has always been Ms Nuala O'Loan and members of her
staff. It is our opinion that a tremendous service has been bestowed
on the Northern Ireland community by the creation and implementation
of the office of Police Ombudsman for Northern Ireland. The office
gives every impression of professionalism, fairness and justice.
Under less than ideal circumstances it has gained the respect
of not only the major factors in Northern Ireland society but
also police, prosecutoriaI and civil rights groups both domestic
and elsewbere; certainly no smalI accomplishment in todays world
climate. The office is being emulated in various countries as
this letter is being written. Indeed those responsible for its
creation and implementation are to be commended and we would urge
Parliament to continue to support this vital service and allow
it to continue to be an independent safeguard for all the people
of Northern Ireland as well as a shining example for the rest
of the world to follow.
23 March 2004
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