Strathclyde ACC gets counter terrorism post

Scotland’s police chiefs have appointed a top officer to co-ordinate the country’s counter terrorism policing. Assistant Chief Constable John Corrigan of Strathclyde Police has taken up the role on behalf of the Association of Chief Police Officers in Scotland (ACPOS).

The new post, announced on June 20, is a unique development in Scotland and is co-funded by the Scottish Executive and the Strathclyde Joint Police Board. It will provide a focus for a range of counter terrorism activities in Scotland.

ACC Corrigan said: “With National Security being reserved to Westminster but policing of Scotland being devolved to Holyrood, it is important that counter terrorism policing understands Scotland. A large part of my role is to influence decisions at all levels to ensure Scotland is at least as secure from terrorism as any part of the United Kingdom. ACPOS works closely with a range of Scottish, UK and international partners to achieve this position.”

Chief Constable Peter Wilson, ACPOS President added: “The mechanisms and processes used by police forces across the UK to counter terrorism are understandably kept under constant review. Scotland’s eight forces, through ACPOS, have identified the need to have a full-time chief officer to co-ordinate Scottish policing policy matters in this environment and we are delighted that ACC John Corrigan has been appointed to the task.

“The events in London during July of last year have generated a range of activities. These include, amongst other things, a major reappraisal of the UK legislative framework for dealing with terrorist-related issues and a review of the capacity of the police service and others to respond to terrorist-related events.

“Scotland’s chief constables are also keen to invoke any improvements that may emerge from reviews or changes ongoing or planned anywhere else within the UK. Mr Corrigan is the ACPOS conduit to these matters.”