FIRST Minister Humza Yousaf has led tributes to Sir Iain Livingstone QPM as he retires as Scotland’s chief constable after 31 years of policing.
Lingstone, who was appointed chief constable in August 2018, announced his decision to stand down from policing in February. He also served as interim chief from September 2017, and will be replaced in the top job by Jo Farrell.
Livingstone leaves the role on Thursday after leading the police force through a number of major events including the Covid-19 pandemic, Cop26 and the death of Queen Elizabeth.
The FM said: “I would like to thank Sir Iain Livingstone for his outstanding leadership of Police Scotland over the past six years.
“During his time in charge, policing of the COVID pandemic, COP26 and the funeral of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II showcased all that is best about the qualities and traditions of Scottish policing.
“He has also shown courage and commitment in challenging the institutional and structural barriers that exist within Police Scotland.
“After 31 years of public service, I wish him well on his retirement.”
Martyn Evans, chair of the Scottish Police Authority (SPA), said: “Sir Iain Livingstone has been integral to delivering the vision of a single national police service and transforming policing over the last decade. In doing so, he has shown great imagination, courage and created much needed stability.
“He has led Police Scotland with dignity, grace and distinction through significant major events and challenges.
“The Authority is immensely grateful for his contribution and leadership and we wish him well for this next chapter.”
Members of the force executive, probationary constables, and other colleagues, serving and retired, wished Livingstone well as he left Police Scotland Headquarters, Tulliallan.
On his retirement, Livingstone said: “Leading our officers and staff as Scotland’s chief constable to keep the public safe has been the privilege of my professional life.
“I thank and pay tribute to all my colleagues for their dedication and professionalism and to my family for their love and support.
“With the strong and experienced leadership team in place and under the command of new Chief Constable Jo Farrell, I know Police Scotland will continue to deliver ethical and effective policing for our fellow citizens.”
Chief Constable Farrell will take up post on October 9 with Deputy Chief Constable Designate Fiona Taylor QPM taking on the responsibilities of Chief Constable in the interim period.
DCC Taylor said: “On behalf of our officers and staff I thank and pay tribute to Sir Iain for his outstanding public service and inspirational leadership. We wish him and his family the very best.”
