Welcome to the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ page). Below, we have tried to answer the most common questions visitors to this site may have. If you find that your question is not answered on this page, please email us at dpp@magherafelt.gov.uk
How were the members of Magherafelt DPP selected?
The Northern Ireland Policing Board employed external consultants to recruit independent members onto the DPPs. The posts were advertised widely to ensure that as many people as possible had the opportunity to apply. The consultant shortlisted the applications against the published criteria. Applications from those candidates who met the criteria were then sent to the relevant council. A panel, made up of a number of councillors and an independent member, considered the applications and interviewed the applicants.
After the interviews, each District Council sent a list containing at least twice the number of suitable candidates as there were vacancies, to the Policing Board. The Board made the final appointments and notified the Council of their decision.
How often does the DPP meet?
Magherafelt DPP will hold at least six public meetings a year. These meetings will be held in different places throughout the district to make sure that as many people as possible have the opportunity to attend. These public meetings will also be advertised in the local press.
What happens at the Public Meetings?
The purpose of holding public meetings is to provide a general forum for discussion and consultation on matters affecting the policing of the district. At these meetings the District Commander will respond to questions and present a report on the policing in the District. These meeting allow DPP members and members of the public to question the District Commander on specific aspects of police performance.
Who attends these Public Meetings?
- · The District Commander and his Senior Management Team
- · The DPP Members
- · Magherafelt District Council staff
- · Members of the Public
How will the DPP benefit the local community?
The strength of a DPP is that it will provide a unique opportunity, through a partnership between elected members and the community, for local people to shape local policing. The DPP will also facilitate dialogue between the police and the local community.The DPP will consult with the community, establish in conjunction with the District Commander policing priorities and monitor police performance against the local policing plan. The DPP provides the community with a unique opportunity to shape local policing. By consulting with public the DPP can recommend local policing objectives to the Police. The public can work with the police to reduce and prevent crime in our district and protect the community. It is the police participating in the community and responding to its needs and correspondingly the community participating in its own policing and supporting the police. An effective partnership between the police and community means a more effective police service and a safer community.
How can I ask a question about policing in the Magherafelt District Council area?
Members of the public have a right to ask questions of the police through the Chairman of the DPP. Questions are welcome from any person living or working in the District or any person directly affected by policing in the District.
The process for asking a question is to submit it in writing, in one of the following ways. Or to ask in person at the meeting.
·Email: dpp@magherafelt.gov.uk
Txt: 07881542363
·Fax: 028 7939 7980
·Write to:
The Secretary
Magherafelt District Policing Partnership
50 Ballyronan Road
Magherafelt
BT45 6EN