The pay hike, matching that already given in England and Wales, is expected to cost £20m. Boutcher has stated the financial challenge lies in sourcing the funds, not in the intention to pay.

While he risks breaching his fiscal duties and facing sanctions, Boutcher is actively seeking additional funding. The DUP supports the move, with Assembly member Trevor Clarke emphasizing that officers risking their lives deserve fair pay.

Clarke has criticized the government for neglecting the PSNI's financial strain, attributing the budget issues to Secretary of State's decisions, which have heightened policing pressures.

Boutcher highlighted that more officers are resigning due to pay disputes, hinting that officer numbers could fall below acceptable levels without proper compensation.

The PSNI predicts a potential decrease to 5,954 officers by March 2025 from the current 6,523. The organization receives approximately £800m from the annual Department of Justice allocation within the Northern Ireland block grant.