Seized crime proceeds back west Belfast school eco‑tunnel

The PSNI Chief Constable has visited a school in west Belfast that has an eco-tunnel being supported by assets seized from criminal activity, as he pledged to “work with our next generation”.

Jon Boutcher visited St Colm’s High School, Twinbrook to view the school’s new health and wellbeing project, a polytunnel for growing fruit and vegetables to teach students about nutrition, which is being supported by the PSNI proceeds of crime fund.

Mr Boutcher said his visit on Thursday is “about listening to the voices of our young people”.

“Policing is vitally important to a healthy and safe society,” he said.

He added: “We want young people in Northern Ireland to know that we are their police service, we are there for them and we take their concerns as seriously as those of adults.

“This is our pledge and our priority.

“To work with our next generation so they have the opportunity to help shape the future of policing and that they ultimately feel safe.

“Northern Ireland and its complex cultural backdrop has meant that we have to work incredibly hard to build trust and confidence within our communities.

“As part of this project in particular, our local officers have had the chance to meet and connect with those taking part.

“They listen to any concerns, and offer advice on some of the issues currently affecting our young people.”

Constable William Kingsberry and neighbourhood police officers worked with the school previously on its Op Chicquer project to address the danger of illegal street scrambling.

That project resulted in a number of safety programmes including bringing together community engagement and youth education through safe scrambling courses.

The school’s principal Adrian Walsh said community engagement “remains a central priority for the PSNI”, and the Chief Constable “emphasised the importance of a police service that represents and serves all sections of the community”.

“Students were given a valuable opportunity to engage directly with the Chief Constable, posing thoughtful and relevant questions based on their own experiences and perceptions of policing,” Mr Walsh said.

“The discussion provided an open and constructive forum, encouraging dialogue and mutual understanding.”