Police service unveils new uniform and crest

The Police Service of Northern Ireland presented its new image to the public today, unveiling the officers' new uniform and crest.

The uniform - in five variations - and crest goes into service across Northern Ireland on April 5, the day the first recruits to the PSNI graduate.

For the first time officers will wear a clearly displayed name badge rather than the police number currently worn.

Speaking at the launch at a Belfast press conference, Professor Desmond Rea, chairman of the Policing Board, said: ‘‘This day represents a very significant and symbolic step for policing in Northern Ireland.

‘‘What we see before us today is simply not a new style of uniform, but a symbol of a fresh start, a new beginning.’’

He said it was a particularly proud moment for the Policing Board as the emblem was unanimously approved by members during the first few weeks of their existence.

He said: ‘‘Presented with what some thought to be an impossible timescale and to what to many seemed to be an insoluble problem, my fellow board members showed great maturity and ingenuity and agreed a design proposal which is respectful to the diversity, inclusiveness and parity.

‘‘We believe we have created an emblem which all communities in Northern Ireland, including everyone in the police service, can claim to be their own.’’