The Isle of Man is considering reforming its much criticised Police Complaints procedures, but anyone hoping that there might be radical change will be disappointed.
It appears that the main criteria driving any revision will be cost and so the position of 'Complaints Commissioner' may be combined with the entirely separate function of 'Tynwald Commissioner for Administration' which hardly inspires confidence that the Government and DHA have learned anything from scandals in recent years.
The Celtic League is one of a number of bodies and individuals that have sought reform. In 2003 the Celtic League raised concerns about the independent police complaints procedure with the body which examines police and prisons in Europe, the European Committee for the Prevention of Torture. We specifically asked "the CPT assess the current adequacy of the procedures for dealing with such complaints".
The previous year the Celtic League also expressed concern calling for "adequate and independent complaints machinery" which would not only allow the public an opportunity to ensure any perceived grievance they have about treatment by the police is addressed but would also ensures a protection for police officers against unfounded allegations.
The DHA appear to be hoping the credibility of their proposals will be enhanced following their apparent endorsement by former Northern Ireland Police Ombudsman, Nuala O'Loan. They point out that the level of complaints in Mann does not warrant the singular role of 'Police Commissioner'.
One has to question if a system which most have little faith in already is hardly likely to be enhanced by the creation of a hybrid 'Police/Tynwald Commissioner'.
However perhaps the greatest irony is the suggestion that the person appointed to monitor law enforcement misconduct should also keep tabs on inappropriate political shenanigans !
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J B Moffatt Director of Information Celtic League
14/03/08
The Celtic League has branches in the six Celtic Countries. It works to promote cooperation between these countries and campaigns on a broad range of political, cultural and environmental matters. It highlights human rights abuse, monitors all military activity and focuses on socio-economic issues.
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