An Independent member of Fermanagh and Omagh District Council believes Chief Constable Simon Byrne’s position is untenable, following what he described as a PSNI ‘solo run’ shift around escorting explosives services.

The controversial PSNI move to write off £437,610 for the provision of explosives escorts to a mining company has divided the Chamber, with no indication how the switch to potentially provide this free came about.

Initially, members were told it was a change of policy; however, that was swiftly eliminated after a Freedom of Information response established no such policy ever existed.

Instead, the PSNI described it as “a new position we were obliged to adopt, based on legal advice, provided independently through the Crown Solicitor’s Office”.

It was further confirmed the “prevailing terrorist threat level” was partly a factor.

But despite numerous government departments and authorities being approached, none appear to have any role or knowledge of the matter.

At the most recent meeting, Councillor Emmet McAleer, Independent, said: “It remains unclear who or under what authority this action was taken.

“The PSNI set the precedent by writing-off a massive bill, especially as the review only commenced after making that decision, which I don’t think is the standard procedure anywhere.”

He continued: “It was interesting to see [the] Labour party leader Kier Starmer sack a Shadow Minister for making up policy on the hoof.

“The PSNI have clearly gone on a solo run [over this decision], and with each correspondence coming back to us, it’s obvious regulation is needed,” claimed Councillor McAleer.

He continued: “This is public money, and the fact the PSNI didn’t actually discuss this with the Policing Board points to an attempt to slip this through unnoticed.”

Ultimately, the Chief Constable has responsibility and “in bypassing the Policing Board, anyone with an understanding of how this works would view his position as untenable, and while I know he won’t be dismissed, it has to be stated publicly,” said Councillor McAleer.

He proposed writing to both the Chief Constable and the Policing Board, asking that the Council, as the accountable local authority, is consulted on any draft strategy, rather than organisations with conflicting interests.

However, this was rebuffed by Councillor John McClaughry, Ulster Unionist, who remarked: “I’m wondering where Councillor McAleer is getting all this information about how the police have reacted, because I don’t seem to be able to get it.

“They aren’t separating mining and quarrying – it’s Councillor McAleer who’s trying to separate them.

“I’m happy to quietly await the report and see what our next actions are. I have serious concerns around how this may affect residents of this area down the line.”

Councillor Donal O’Cofaigh, Independent, seconded Councillor McAleer’s proposal, but also noted Councillor McClaughry’s comments “are exactly what we want”.

He continued: “Toxic mining should be split away from other forms. There’s absolutely no reason why money is being subverted when we are suffering so badly with public services.

“Our NHS is completely underfunded and understaffed, yet we are seeing money being given to support a toxic industry that nobody in this area wants.”

Ulster Unionist Councillor Howard Thornton stated: “I take a contrary view. I think we should await the review. As for the Council having some input into police operational matters, I don’t even see the Policing Board having that.”

Final speaker,  Independent Councillor Eamon Keenan, said: “Under no circumstances should taxpayers be footing the bill.”

The matters went to a vote, passing 15 – 9.