Sir, - In support of his article on the future of Northern Ireland's political institutions (The Irish Times, October 4th), Brendan O'Leary asserts that "because of Sinn FΘin's boycott, nationalists are now under-represented on the police board, while unionists are over-represented". This is patently not the case.
Although Sinn FΘin's decision resulted in their seats on the board going to Unionists, the appointment of the non-political members quite deliberately took place after the political nominees were known. This has produced a well-balanced board, which was not only a statutory requirement but is a vital element in fostering broad community confidence in the new beginning for policing.
For the first time in the history of Northern Ireland the new policing arrangements have won cross-community support from not only our government but the Irish Government, the US administration, the Catholic Church, Chris Patten himself and many others.
The courage of the 300 young people, Catholic and Protestant, who are joining the new Police Service of Northern Ireland has been matched by that of nationalist politicians and independents on the Policing Board. Their task will not be easy, but it is of critical importance to everyone in every part of Northern Ireland.
I regret Sinn FΘin's decision not to accept their invitation to join the board. Surely their participation would be the best way for them to argue their case on policing. - Yours, etc.,
Jane Kennedy, MP, Minister of State, Northern Ireland Office, Belfast.