Schedule 4 Code of Conduct for RUC Officers

The primary duties of members of the Royal Ulster Constabulary are the protection of life and property, the preservation of peace, and the prevention and detection of criminal offences. To fulfil these duties they are granted extraordinary powers; the public and the police service therefore have the right to expect the highest standards of conduct from them.

This Code sets out the principles which guide police officers' conduct. It does not seek to restrict officers' discretion: rather it aims to define the parameters of conduct within which that discretion should be exercised. However, it is important to note that any breach of the principles in this Code may result in action being taken, which, in serious cases, could involve dismissal. In addition, the Police Ombudsman has powers in relation to disciplinary proceedings, for example, the Ombudsman can direct that charges can be brought and invoke a special procedure known as a Directed Tribunal.

This Code applies to the conduct of members of the RUC in all ranks, and all members of the RUC Reserve, whether part-time or full-time whilst on duty, or off duty if the conduct is serious enough to indicate that an officer is not fit to be a police officer. It will be applied in a reasonable and objective manner. Due regard will be paid to the degree of negligence or deliberate fault and to the nature and circumstances of an officer’s conduct.