New police ombudsman appointed

A new Police Ombudsman for Northern Ireland has been appointed.

Jacqui Durkin, who served as Chief Inspector of the Criminal Justice Inspection for Northern Ireland (CJINI) for six years, will take up the role on Friday.

She replaces Marie Anderson, who retired in December 2025.

In a statement the first and deputy first ministers said Durkin brings extensive senior leadership experience and a strong track record in oversight, governance and public service.

The role of Police Ombudsman had been vacant since Anderson's retirement.

Much of her six-year tenure was overshadowed by a two-year police investigation related to a domestic incident at her home that resulted in no prosecutions.

The Police Ombudsman for Northern Ireland is an independent body that investigates complaints about the conduct of police officers and the actions of the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI).

It can examine allegations of misconduct, criminal behaviour, or failures in policing to help ensure the police are held accountable.

The appointment, which comes with an annual salary of just over £173,000, is for a single term of seven years which begins on 26 June.

Seven candidates were shortlisted for the job from a field of 21 applications.

Durkin previously worked as a senior civil servant in the Department of Education and held a number of senior leadership roles in the Northern Ireland Court Service.

Justice Minister Naomi Long welcomed Durkin's appointment and thanked her for her service as CJINI.

"Jacqui brings a wealth of experience to the role of Police Ombudsman and I wish her every success during her tenure," she said.

"The inspection programme overseen by the Chief Inspector enables us to develop a more effective and efficient criminal justice system for the people of Northern Ireland and Jacqui will bring a track record of leadership and achievement to her new role."

The Department of Justice said an announcement about Durkin's replacement as CJINI will be made in due course.