63.The Patten Report envisages a reduction in the overall size of the regular police service from 8400 officers to 7500.  To achieve this reduction and to enable recruitment, approximately 4500 officers will leave the police over a 10-year period.  The Full Time Reserve (2500 officers) will be phased out.  Section 49 provides for the Secretary of State to make special provision in pensions regulations to provide for the introduction of a temporary voluntary, early retirement and early severance scheme.  The voluntary scheme will apply to all members of the Royal Ulster Constabulary and Royal Ulster Constabulary Reserve who joined the police force before 1 July 1995.  The scheme offers enhancements to existing pension arrangements and special compensatory lump sums.  These provisions will not be subject to consultation with the Police Negotiation Board.
Commentary Part Vi: the Police Section 49: Severance Arrangements