Detective Niall Deehan Honored for Establishing Family Liaison Officer Role in NZ Police

Detective Niall Deehan, a 42-year veteran of the New Zealand Police, has been honored as a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit (MNZM) for his significant contributions, including the establishment of the Family Liaison Officer (FLO) role.

The establishment of the Family Liaison Officer role has significant implications for the way police forces support families affected by traumatic events. This recognition may lead to further adoption and expansion of this role, leading to improved response to crisis situations and supporting those in need.

Deehan, based in Kāpiti, has been an emergency responder for over four decades. His career began in the fire service in Northern Ireland, followed by 25 years with the Metropolitan Police in the UK, before joining the New Zealand Police in 2007.

A passionate advocate for family liaison, Deehan was instrumental in formalizing the FLO role within the New Zealand Police. This role, which was completed in 2021, provides vital support to families affected by traumatic events. Deehan's efforts have led to the training of 55 FLO officers nationwide, with plans to expand the role to encompass daily police duties.

Deehan's first family liaison role in New Zealand followed the Carterton balloon tragedy in 2012. Since then, he has been involved in several high-profile mass casualty events, including the Christchurch terror attack, the Whakaari White Island eruption, and the Loafers Lodge fire in Wellington.

Reflecting on his recognition, Deehan expressed his surprise and appreciation: *"I was the most shocked person in the world when I heard of my award. I have no idea who nominated me and to be honest, I think I want to keep it that way. I'll treat everybody as if it was them who nominated me. I'm exceptionally grateful to whoever that person or persons were. "*

Police Commissioner Andrew Coster congratulated Deehan and other police staff recognized in the King's Birthday Honours. "All these recipients are rightly recognised for outstanding work which has improved the safety and wellbeing of members of the public and our own people," said Coster.

Deehan's dedication to family liaison extends beyond New Zealand. He has provided ongoing support to families affected by the MH17 plane crash in Ukraine and was awarded an Australian Federal Police Commissioner's Commendation for his efforts. Additionally, he served in the capacity of New Zealand Police Liaison for the family of Sergeant Matthew Ratana, who was murdered in a London police station.

Before his tenure in New Zealand, Deehan was a police officer in the United Kingdom, where he worked with New Scotland Yard's Racial and Violent Crime Task Force, investigating hate crimes and high-profile murders.

Detective Niall Deehan's recognition as a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit highlights his commitment to supporting families during their darkest times and his significant contributions to the New Zealand Police force.

Key Takeaways

• Detective Niall Deehan honored as Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit (MNZM).
• Deehan established the Family Liaison Officer (FLO) role, supporting families in crisis.
• 55 FLO officers trained nationwide, with plans to expand the role.
• Deehan involved in high-profile cases, including Christchurch terror attack and Whakaari eruption.
• Recognition highlights Deehan's commitment to supporting families in traumatic events.