Ford pays tribute to fallen police officers

7.11.00pm BST (GMT +0100) Sun 26th Sep 2010

Justice Minister David Ford

Justice Minister David Ford has today attended the National Police Memorial Service at the Waterfront Hall.

The national service, in memory of police officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty, was attended by representatives of the policing family from across the UK.

Welcoming the congregation to the service, David Ford said, "It is an immense privilege to attend this service today and an honour to be the first locally elected Justice Minister to participate in this dignified and sensitive occasion.

"Police officers regularly put their lives on the line serving all sections of the community and we should never take what they do for granted.

"The people of Northern Ireland are served by some of the best police officers in the world, who are working in very difficult, challenging and dangerous circumstances.

"Today I want to express my sincere gratitude to all officers who give so much to the community on a daily basis and today, in particular, to the officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

"My thoughts are with the families of those who mourn their loved ones. Society must never be allowed to forget their selfless service."