Structure

We will conduct a thorough and independent re-appraisal of unresolved cases, with the aim of identifying and exploring any evidential opportunities that exist.

The Historical Enquiries Team has been specifically designed to provide a thorough and independent reappraisal of unresolved cases, with the aim of identifying and exploring any evidential opportunities that exist.

It is staffed by police officers and civilian staff recruited both within Northern Ireland and externally. Command rests with officers from outside the Police
Service of Northern Ireland but who have gained experience of Northern Ireland issues.

The unit will has three distinct Review and Investigation teams.

One is staffed exclusively by externally seconded officers from UK mainland forces and An Garda Síochána. This team deals with those specific cases where independence is essential and where sections of the community or individuals are not yet comfortable working with the Police Service of Northern Ireland.

The other two teams, which are made up of officers from Police Service of Northern Ireland as well as other police services, progress the remainder of cases, supported by intelligence and analytical staff.

This balance of locally recruited and external staff is designed to deliver professionalism, integrity and an effective response to the challenges ahead, building and maintaining confidence in the policing process.