Agenda item

Report of the Safe Durham Partnership – presented by Detective Inspector Alfie Keane, Durham Constabulary.

The Chairman introduced Detective Inspector Alfie Keane, Durham Constabulary who was in attendance to provide members with an update on progress of the collective response of all ‘specified authorities’ to the new duties imposed by the Counter Terrorism and Security Act 2015 (for copy of report see file of minutes).

Councillor Thompson referred to the Home Office Prevent Innovation Project and the creative arts project and sought clarification on how the areas of Bishop Auckland and Darlington had been chosen for the project.

Detective Inspector Keane responded that he was unaware of the specific criteria used for the selection of these areas but would obtain this information and respond to Members of the Committee.

Councillor Stoker referred to a radio interview with the Metropolitan Police on how recent acts of terrorism had led to heightened security levels over an extended period and the ability of a reduced a number of police officers to continue to provide protection at this level. He asked how long County Durham could sustain highlighted security levels.

Detective Inspector Keane responded that if Durham was at a critical status over a period then they would call on additional officers to sustain the level. The Government stepped up to critical status last week and extra resources were deployed and the army would release officers if needed. These options were available to all police forces.

Chief Superintendent Green advised Members of a national approach through mutual support within the police service and that Durham officers were deployed to Manchester following the terrorist attack and the concert which took place a few weeks later. Officers from Durham were also deployed to provide support following the fire at Grenfell Towers. Therefore, if County Durham needed extra resources this would be reciprocated from other police forces and the police service also has the option to require officers to work 12 hour shifts although this was not in place for the last two escalations to critical status. 

Councillor Charlton referred to the importance of neighbourhood policing and that there was currently no police inspector with her area.

Councillor Crute commented on the importance of communication with communities and this being achieved with a reduction in PACT meetings.  .

Chief Superintendent Green responded that not all PACT meetings were well attended and so after careful consideration across the force area that had been a reduction in the number of PACT meetings. Chief Superintendent Green advised Members that he would ensure that the acting Inspector for the Stanley area would be in contact with local Members, and their details be available on the Force’s website.

Councillor Thompson indicated that PACT meetings in his area were well attended and he would not like to see any reduction in meetings. In response, Chief Superintendent Green advised that the reduction in PACT meetings had taken place and there was no intention to change current PACT meetings.

Mr Cooke referred to para 3 of the report and asked if there were links with schools and a system of co-operation.

Detective Inspector Keane responded that they had recently held two events for Head Teachers and there was a structure in place and preventative education worked.

Councillor Kennedy advised Members that the structure in place in schools was fantastic, they had direct contact with the police who responded quickly.

The Chairman asked what Members should look out for in their areas.

Detective Inspector Keane encouraged Members to report any suspicious activity linked to terrorism or extremism within their communities. 

Councillor Kennedy suggested training for Members as they were the first contact in the community. The Overview and Scrutiny Officer advised that he would look into prevent training for Members.

Resolved:

That the report be noted.