An SDLP member of the Northern Ireland Policing Board has welcomed remarks by President McAleese, who said in an RTÉ Radio interview she has family members who have joined the PSNI.
Speaking on the Marian Finucane programme on Sunday morning, Mrs McAleese told of how some of her relations, understood to be cousins, have joined the PSNI.
Joe Byrne said the details given reflected what is happening in many nationalist communities.
Mr Byrne is from Omagh, the scene of the one of the worst atrocities perpetrated by republicans during the troubles.
In a wide-ranging interview, the President also praised the widespread changes in Irish society.
She said more people believed in a future built on the Good Friday Agreement than did not.
The President also discussed improving relationships between Northern Ireland and the Republic, as well as changes between communities in Northern Ireland.
Mrs McAleese and her husband, Martin, are from nationalist areas of Belfast. They grew up at a time when Northern Ireland's police force was frequently involved in controversy.
During her time as President they have attempted to build bridges with the unionist community.
Under the current Chief Constable, Sir Hugh Orde, the implementation of the Patten reforms including the recruitment of more Catholics has continued.
There is also increasing co-operation with gardaí, a pattern that is set to continue in the New Year.
SF still considering move on policing
Mrs McAleese's comments came as Sinn Fén continues to consider whether to call a special Ard Fheis to discuss its policy on policing.
On Saturday night, an all-day meeting of senior Sinn Féin figures in Dundalk ended with no official announcement that the party intends to call a national executive meeting to discuss policy on policing.
A party spokesperson said good progress was made during the discussions and the group will reconvene in the days immediately after Christmas.
The DUP insists it will not enter a power-sharing administration next March unless Sinn Féin changes its policy on support for the PSNI and law and order.
It would take a decision by a Sinn Féin Ard Fheis to authorise a policy shift.
