PSNI: Naomi Long rejects call for public inquiry into spying allegations

The SDLP had submitted a motion calling for an independent inquiry into the alleged use of “wiretapping and other unlawful practices against journalists”.

Leader of the opposition, Matthew O’Toole, said that “all too often” journalism in society had been compromised and that there was a need to establish the “breadth and depth” of any alleged surveillance.

But Mrs Long said while she shared concerns about the issue, she needed to respect “carefully designed lines of accountability” between the PSNI and the Policing Board, which oversees policing and holds the organisation to account.

“I stand ready to do what is required to ensure public confidence, up to and including a public inquiry, should that be necessary,” she added.

MLAs backed an Alliance amendment to the motion which said the issue was in the first instance a matter for the Policing Board.