Sir Desmond Rea: Tributes on death of first policing board chair

Tributes have been paid to Sir Desmond Rea - the first chairman of the Northern Ireland Policing Board - who has died aged 89. A successful businessman and academic, he held a number of high-profile positions in the public, private and voluntary sectors during a career which spanned decades. He was awarded a knighthood in 2004 for services to policing. The current Policing Board Chair, Brendan Mullan, described Sir Desmond as "one of the founding fathers of the new policing arrangements in Northern Ireland". "He brought leadership, vision, and unwavering drive and determination as he guided the newly established Policing Board. "Not only was Sir Desmond a respected leader, he was also a mentor, supporter, and source of encouragement to many," Mullan said. Northern Ireland's Justice Minister Naomi Long said he would "long be remembered" for his role on the policing board during "a critical and sensitive time". "I extend my deepest sympathies to Sir Desmond's wife Maeve, his daughters and the wider family," she added. The Police Service of Northern Ireland's Chief Constable, Jon Boutcher said Sir Desmond Rea was one of the most "significant figures in the transformation of policing i

May 27, 2026 → May 27, 2026