Statement from the Deputy Mayor on a dispersal order issued by Greater Manchester Police last month
Today (Tuesday December 17) Deputy Mayor of Greater Manchester for Safer and Stronger Communities, Kate Green, has issued a statement on a dispersal order issued by Greater Manchester Police last month.
Kate Green, Deputy Mayor for Safer and Stronger Communities said:
"Greater Manchester Police have now provided me with their account of what happened in the city centre on 23 November including their rationale for the decision to issue a dispersal order on that day.
"GMP acknowledge that the decision to issue a dispersal order has caused anger and distress in the Romany Gypsy and Irish Traveller communities, particularly with regards to the impact on children and young people, and that was not their intention.
"The decision to issue a dispersal order was an operational one for GMP to make, on what was an extremely busy day in the city of Manchester which saw considerable crime, anti social behaviour and disorder across the city centre. Having reviewed the intelligence and decision making, I understand the rationale that was applied by GMP in deciding to issue the dispersal order.
"I can also confirm that this was not a pre-planned operation and GMP have advised that the high number of police officers on duty was due to the levels of footfall and events taking place including the Christmas markets.
"However, I do believe that there are lessons to be learned from what happened, and I have written to the Chief Constable to ask GMP to address a number of matters.
"I consider that the issues encountered on the day could have been anticipated sooner and that GMP could have planned and engaged the Romany Gypsy and Irish Traveller communities in advance. This could have prevented this dispersal order being issued and applied in the way that it was.
"I have also asked GMP to review and consider the implications of its decision to put children back on trains, including safeguarding considerations.
"GMP have confirmed that they will strive to continue engaging with these communities going forward to avoid similar situations arising in future. I have stressed that this engagement must now be a priority.
"Concerns have been expressed to me that the order was applied in a discriminatory manner. Where complaints have been made of this, they will be investigated by GMP’s Professional Standards Department. I will monitor the progress and outcomes of these cases carefully.
"The events have also surfaced some issues about how police ensure they act proportionately and do not unfairly discriminate in such situations. This is something that I will pursue at a national level."
Article Published: 17/12/2024 13:57 PM