Sir Ronnie Flanagan has announced his intention to retire as Chief Constable of the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI). Speculation over his intentions had been mounting for several months and was fuelled further by comments he made on the day the RUC was officially renamed as the PSNI. At the time, Sir Ronnie (52) said he was "absolutely committed" to the changes in policing in the North. "It is, therefore, very important, as a visible demonstration of that commitment for me to be in this post when the major changes take place", he said, but added that the programme of change could take up to 10 years.
"In theory my appointment lasts for another two years beyond November - I certainly won't do that. I think it would be within a year at the very most. It is unlikely to be January, but I wouldn't rule out May. I am unlikely to be here this time next year, most unlikely," he said.
It is believed the selection process for a new chief constable could last as long as three months, and many candidates would then also have to give three months' notice as well. The decision will be made by the North's Policing Board and is subject to confirmation by the Northern Secretary. Sir Ronnie is expected to receive a substantial severance payment as well as a generous pension.
Sir Ronnie, the son of a north Belfast shipyard worker, joined the RUC in 1970 and became Chief Constable in 1996.
Speaking in Dublin, the Taoiseach paid tribute to Sir Ronnie and praised him for doing "immense work under difficult circumstances".
The North's First Minister Mr David Trimble said he had presided over the RUC and PSNI during a "difficult and painful transition". He described Sir Ronnie as a great communicator who had had a great impact on the public.