North: Trickle of applications to head Force

The closing date for applications to run the new Northern Ireland Police Force was passing today, with the North's acting chief constable expected to rule himself out of the race.

With fewer than five people expected to have applied by the deadline, sources disclosed that Colin Cramphorn would not be bidding to secure the €212,000 job on a permanent basis.

‘‘Colin has indicated privately he will not be applying,’’ one said.

Mr Cramphorn stepped up from deputy chief constable of the Police Service of Northern Ireland after Ronnie Flanagan quit last month.

Although he agreed only to head the PSNI until a permanent successor was found, his name was among those touted as serious contenders for one of the toughest jobs in worldwide policing.

But it is understood Mr Cramphorn has made it clear he sees his future away from Northern Ireland.

A PSNI spokesman refused to confirm this decision.

Mr Cramphorn is expected to issue a statement on his situation later today.

According to sources only five application packs were sent out to officers interested in the job.

It is believed Mr Cramphorn received one of these, leaving a maximum of four people in the running.

The number who filled out and returned the forms could be even fewer.

Among those expected to pitch their hats in the ring were two senior PSNI officers: Alan McQuillan, the assistant chief constable for Belfast; and Chris Albiston, who has returned from secondment in Kosovo.

An interviewing panel drawn from the Northern Ireland Policing Board has been tasked with making an appointment before the end of June.

The new chief constable could then be thrust into Northern Ireland’s volatile marching season.

Policing Board members have been sworn to secrecy as they hunt for the replacement to Sir Ronnie, now one of Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary.

But a board source said last night: ‘‘The PSNI will be fortunate if it receives more than three applications.’’