14 January 2026
Under questioning at today's Northern Ireland Affairs Committee from SDLP Leader Claire Hanna MP, PSNI Chief Constable Jon Boutcher confirmed that:
- The PSNI Chief Constable supports an independent review of the resourcing and operating practices of the Public Prosecution Service (PPS) in relation to Northern Ireland legacy cases
- The investigation into the murder of Denis Donaldson requires full PSNI compliance, and that clarification is needed on its status as a Troubles-related case
- A government-led response is required to the recommendations of Operation Kenova
Speaking after the committee session, Claire Hanna MP said:
“Drawing on his experience in London, the Chief Constable has made clear that there is scope to improve how the PPS handles legacy cases. It is vital that the PPS takes account of this professional assessment and ensures that reviews of Kenova decisions are as rigorous and robust as possible.
“Last April, the SDLP called for an independent review of our rule of law institutions. We must be honest about what has worked, and what has not, since Patten, otherwise we risk undermining hard-won progress, including the new beginning to policing.
“In the case of Denis Donaldson’s murder, the contrast between the protections afforded to Freddie Scappaticci by the Provisional IRA, Sinn Féin and the security services, and the treatment of the Donaldson family, could not be starker. Nearly 20 years on, the investigation remains unresolved, the inquest has been halted 29 times, and evidence has been withheld from the family without explanation.
“The SDLP remains clear: no state or non-state actor has the right to determine a victim’s pathway to truth and justice. That principle applies to the Donaldson family, as it should to every family.”