    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: WILLIAM J. CLINTON (1999, Book II)]
    [September 9, 1999]
    [Page 1517]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement on the Recommendations of the Patten
    Commission
    September 9, 1999

        I welcome the unanimous recommendations of the Independent
    Commission on Policing (the Patten Commission), which represent an
    important outcome of the Good Friday agreement. While it is up to the
    people of Northern Ireland to address the specific proposals, I strongly
    endorse the report's guiding objective: to take politics out of policing
    in Northern Ireland. The benchmarks identified--effectiveness,
    efficiency, impartiality, accountability, representativeness, and
    respect for human rights--are the guideposts for good policing
    everywhere. The Commission's recommendations focus on assuring a
    professional police service in Northern Ireland that meets the highest
    possible standards and that enjoys the support of the community as a
    whole. The Commission's approach draws on best practices from other
    police forces, including those in the United States. I am pleased that
    two distinguished Americans served on the Patten Commission, and I
    commend Chris Patten and all the members of the
    Commission for their efforts.