Promotion Process

Request Number: FOI/16334

Category: Human Resources - Officer and Staff (Recruitment & Promotion)

Subject: Promotion Process

Request and Answer: 
Your request for information has now been considered. In respect of Section 1(1)(a) of the Act we can confirm that the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) does hold some information to which your request relates and this is being provided to you.

Request
Can you supply me with the following information on relation to officer promotion processes, constable to sergeant, sergeant to inspector, inspector to chief inspector and chief inspector to superintendent for all promotion processes beginning 2020 to present date.

Request 1
The number of appeals submitted relating to the ‘interview stages’ for each process including the reasons?

Answer
Please find the table below which outlines the year, promotion process, number of appears, and reason (if applicable) in relation to appeals relating to the ‘interview stage’.

We do not however hold information in relation to the 2020 – 2022 promotion processes as all candidates have been appointed, and the relevant record disposal policy adhered to.

In addition in 2023 there were no generic promotion process to the ranks requested. A bespoke process was held to fill vacancies in Derry City & Strabane District which had no appeals.

Request 2
The number of appeals that were upheld and not upheld as a result of the appeal panel including the rational for the decision?

Answer
Please find the table overleaf which outlines the promotion process, number of appeals upheld, and rationale.

Request 3
The number of officers who were afforded a second attempt at their interview, without having lodged an official appeal, therefore outside current promotion policy. Include reasons and rational for the decision.

Answer
Please find the table below which outlines the promotion process, number provided a second attempt interview, and rationale.