Explanatory note

This Order brings into force Parts II and VI and sections 2(5)(a) to (c), 7, 19(2)(a), 24, 74(1) and (3) (partially), 75, 76(1), 77 of, and Schedules 2, 4 (partially) and 6 (partially) to, the Police (Northern Ireland) Act 1998 (“the Act”) on 8th October 1998.

Part II of the Act concerns the setting of policing objectives by the Secretary of State, the setting of policing objectives and performance targets and an annual policing plan by the Police Authority and the issue of a strategic policing plan by the Chief Constable.

Section 2(5)(a) to (c) (general functions of the Policy Authority), section 7 (arrangements for obtaining the views of the public on policing), section 19(2)(a) (general functions of Chief Constable) and Part VI (Reports) are relevant provisions for the purposes of the operation of Part II of the Act.

Section 24 concerns the attestation of constables and Schedule 2 sets out the Form of Declaration to be made by a member of the police force upon appointment as a constable.

Section 74(1) and (3) and Schedules 4 and 6 make consequential amendments and repeals. Sections 75 (Commencement), 76(1) (Extent) and 77 (Short title) are also brought into force.

Article 4 of this Order specifies the transitional provisions that apply to sections 15, 17 and 47(1) of the Act.