A19 Ruling Finds In Favour Of Forces
The Court of Appeal has today, Wednesday, February 1, 2017, ruled North Wales Police’s use of regulation A19, which required officers with more than 30 years’ pensionable service to retire, was lawful.
The Superintendents’ Association of England and Wales and a number of officers and former officers of federated rank took action against the North Wales, Nottinghamshire, West Midlands, Devon and Cornwall and South Wales forces challenging its legality.
19 officers left North Wales Police between 2011 and 2013 when the force introduced A19 as part of challenging austerity measures affecting public services.
It should be noted only some of those officers were part of the claim related to today’s decision.
Chief Constable Mark Polin said: “The decision to use A19 was a very difficult one which resulted in all the forces involved losing some very experienced, committed and able police officers at all ranks.
“It was a decision made following considerable consultation and at the time the North Wales Police Authority felt there was no viable alternative to meet the enormous financial challenges we faced.
“We sought expert legal advice and from the very outset were confident our use of the regulation was lawful and fair. We do however understand the enormous impact this has had on some former officers who will be disappointed by today’s findings.
“It has been a lengthy, but important process for all involved and today’s outcome means that the force can now look to the future and focus on the challenges that lie ahead.
“We are publically accountable and have a duty to do all we can to balance the books, while seeking to maintain an efficient and effective service. We will continue to make difficult decisions as we move forward with the safety of the people of North Wales always at the heart of what we do.”
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