Head of law enforcement role and target models under review also

The Home Affairs Committee announced the review as it confirmed Ruari Hardy’s plans to retire from the role this summer.

President Rob Prow said that its outcome was not prejudged.

‘The terms of reference have not even yet been agreed,’ he said. ‘The landscape and challenges on all areas of our service are constantly changing, so these reviews are appropriate, but we are not going to unpick anything that works.

‘This head of law enforcement role was established in 2012 and various things and the demands of the role have changed since, so it’s time to look at it again.

‘For example, since 2012 we have been through Brexit and all the changes it brought, especially for the Border Agency, and we have made significant changes to the way in which we combat financial crime, with the creation and independence of the Economic and Financial Crime Bureau.’

Former deputy Advocate Peter Harwood, a non-voting member of Home Affairs, is leading on these reviews for the committee, working with the chief officers of the various sections.

These reviews will look at potential savings as well as governance matters.

Home Affairs has stated that it is looking for a Chief of Police to replace Mr Hardy, and that person will act as head of law enforcement while that role is reviewed. A three-year contract is being offered, with the potential to extend it by a further two years.

Deputy Prow said that he expected the review could take between six and nine months, while the target operating model reviews should be completed before the end of the political term.

Deputy Prow said that Mr Hardy had done an ‘excellent job’ as head of law enforcement.

‘The review is simply because of the opportunity – it is not a reflection of Ruari Hardy’s leadership or operational abilities, which are outstanding.’