The man scrutinising massive police reforms in Northern Ireland has been given another two years to complete the job, it emerged today.
Mr Al Hutchinson will remain as Oversight Commissioner until the end of May 2007, the British government announced.
The former Royal Canadian Mounted police chief has been evaluating 175 recommendations in the Patten blueprint for overhauling the force. But he wants to see major security reductions at stations across the province and more civilian staff recruited before he leaves.
Northern Ireland Secretary Paul Murphy said: "The reports by the Oversight Commissioner highlight what has been achieved in the implementation of Patten, but just as importantly, what work remains outstanding.
"We are well along the road to the full implementation of the Patten recommendations, but we have not yet completed the journey.
"In order to do so, I am extending the terms of the Office of the Oversight Commissioner so that the implementation of the outstanding recommendations will be independently verified."
The watchdog was set up as part of the Good Friday Agreement arrangements for sweeping changes to the staunchly Protestant Royal Ulster Constabulary.
As well as renaming the force as the Police Service of Northern Ireland, former Hong Kong governor Chris Patten called for an array of other moves to strengthen confidence.
Ex-New York police commander Tom Constantine was appointed to monitor the programme in May 2000, with Mr Hutchinson, his number two, taking charge after his retirement at the end of 2003.