How even-handed is the chief constable?

PSNI chief constable Hugh Orde has “a reputation as an even-handed policeman” (Irish Examiner editorial, January 8).

Just before Christmas, he said that PSNI members did not have to declare membership of the Orange Order (in contravention of the Patten reforms).

Have we forgotten why the Assembly was suspended - It was because Sinn Féin were supposed to be running a ‘spy ring’ in Stormont. All charges against those arrested were dropped, but power-sharing wasn’t restored.

When a listening device was found in the home of one of Gerry Adams’ staff last September, there wasn’t a squeak out of Mr Orde.

Michael O’Flynn

7 Loretto Park

Friar’s Walk

Cork