NCJ Number
179956
Date Published
1999
Length
25 pages
Annotation
The connection between policing and the state is very much evident in Northern Ireland, and the British Government's political initiatives since 1972 have influenced perceptions of the Royal Ulster Constabulary (RUC) for both Catholics and Protestants.
Abstract
Ever since the beginning of British rule, Protestants in Northern Ireland have worried about whose interests the police protect. In the past decade, Protestants have increasingly questioned the RUCs leanings, sometimes labeling police as tools of the British state or even as anti-Protestant. Such suspicions have intensified since the beginning of the cease-fire with the Irish Republican Army. Many Protestants believe that political concessions are being made to Catholics alone and that Protestants are being "sold out" by the British Government. The author points out that policing reforms in the absence of accompanying changes in the political system will have limited influence on popular attitudes. However, he also notes that renewed efforts are planned to change the ethnic balance of the RUC and to create a neutral working environment within the police force. He concludes that any major transformation of policing structures will depend on an overall political settlement acceptable to all parties. A historical review is presented of police reform after 1969, fortification and militarization trends within the RUC, composition and impartiality issues, and the problem of police accountability. 32 references and 2 tables