The Ulster Unionist Party has marked the 100th anniversary of the founding of the Royal Ulster Constabulary.  

Mike Nesbitt MLA, who represents the Party on the Policing Board, said:

“Today we mark the Centenary of the foundation of the Royal Ulster Constabulary. The men and women of the RUC showed incredible bravery and heroism throughout the Troubles, placing themselves in the front line to defend this society from terrorist campaigns and prevent Northern Ireland descending into anarchy.

“Officers faced a terrorist threat both on and off duty and we must never forget that their families also shared that burden of stress and worry. Officers could never relax, knowing their colleagues were being murdered going to work, coming home from work, in their kitchens, living rooms and bedrooms, in hospital and supermarket car parks, in clubs and bars. Nowhere was safe.

“302 police officers were murdered and hundreds more injured by terrorist actions. They are all owed a debt that can never be adequately repaid, and today we pause to acknowledge their service and their sacrifice.”    

North Down MLA and former Policing Board representative Alan Chambers said:

“It was my privilege to have served in the RUC for 15 years as a Reservist in the 1970s and 1980s. I can say with absolute confidence that the men and women I served with acted in the finest traditions of policing and I am proud to have served alongside them.”