Retention of PSNI reserve only logical: Neeson

12.00.00am UTC (GMT +0000) Mon 7th Oct 2002

Alliance Assembly member Sean Neeson has welcomed the retention of the PSNI full-time reserve until 2005, saying it was the "only logical decision" that could be taken.

Mr Neeson said: "The PSNI are clearly under strength at the moment because of ongoing street violence and continuing paramilitary activity. With the crime rate rising drastically, retention of the full time reserve was the only logical decision that could be made.

"This may not strictly be in line with the Patten proposals, but the vast majority of people in Northern Ireland need to see improvements in law and order. The retention of the reserve will boost confidence and reduce crime by having more officers serving in front-line duties where they are needed most."

Mr Neeson also said there was a need for a speedy decision on the part time reserve.