In December 2017 the Independent Steering Group (ISG) met again for a two-day conference.
Chief Constable Jon Boutcher provided the group with a comprehensive update as to progress made by the investigation since the last meeting in April 2017. Mr Boutcher informed the group that he had recently spoken in person to all the families that have engaged with the investigation. The main purpose of his call was to thank them for their support, update them on the progress made by the investigation and to inform them as to whether their investigation was now formally part of the Operation Kenova Terms of Reference or if their case still remained under review. A letter from Mr Boutcher has been delivered to each family confirming the details of their conversation.
Other significant issues discussed during the ISG included:
The recommendations made by the National Police Chiefs' Council independent review of the investigation; and
the potential benefits of a comprehensive media appeal.
During the conference ISG members were introduced to the Chair and Chief Executive of the Policing Board of Northern Ireland. The meeting provided an opportunity for the ISG and Policing Board to discuss their respective roles and to provide the necessary reassurance as to the operational independence of the investigation.
Due to this being an on-going criminal investigation no further information will be disclosed at this time regarding the meeting of the ISG and Operation Kenova leadership.
