Another data breach that has the potential to put people in physical jeopardy:
More than 170 former police officers have contacted an emergency help service set up after an administrative error potentially compromised their security, the Assembly has been told.
Some of those ex-members of the RUC’s [Royal Ulster Constabulary] Part-Time Reserve may be considered for a relocation scheme if police substantiate that their safety is at risk, Justice Minister David Ford said.
The security breach occurred when former officers were mailed a payment in an envelope with a clear window — potentially identifying them as terrorist target.
Mr Ford revealed the number of officers who had come forward as he responded to an emergency Assembly debate on the foul-up.
“In terms of those who have raised concerns to date, 156 people have called the telephone helpline, nine people have emailed and nine people have written to the department,” he said.
The £20m gratuity fund was made available by the Treasury to make the one-off payment to officers in the now-defunct reserve in recognition of their service during the Troubles.
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