Garda Times Yearbook 2025

BRAVERY AWARDS

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GARDA NEWS

€4M AMMUNITION TENDER

An Garda Síochána is to spend €4million on ammunition for its rearm stores at Garda HQ in the Phoenix Park over the next ve years. e force has tendered for a 60-month ammunition contract for the delivery of more than 1.5 million bullets on an annual basis. While uniformed gardaí are unarmed, the force’s specialist regional rearms component, the Armed Support Unit, is tasked with supporting local gardaí in incidents in which rearms or other weapons are in use. e tender seeks to procure one million rounds of 9mm, full metal jacket ammunition per annum for speci c Sig Pistol and Walther P99 rearms. A further minimum 500,000 rounds per year of ammunition is required for the Heckler & Koch MP7 submachine gun, while an additional 50,000 are to be procured for the heavy-duty Heckler & Koch 416 assault ri e. It also includes extensive rearms testing of the ammunition supplied, to take place at the winning contractor’s factory space at no additional cost to An Garda Síochána, the tender stipulates. e relevant tests include bullet velocity, accuracy, and action time regarding the relevant ammunition. Gardaí said that the annual ammunition delivery is to be made in one batch each year, adding that additional rounds may be required. Armed Support Unit members undergo training over a 13-week period, including modules in critical incident response, tactical deployment, con ict resolution, and negotiation techniques. ere are roughly 200 o cers in the unit in Ireland, with the largest of the six units having more than 60 members in Dublin.

LEGAL AID INCREASE

An 8% increase in fees paid to barristers and solicitors under the Criminal Legal Aid Scheme came into e ect at the start of this year. This represents an increase of €9 million in funding for criminal legal aid and is in addition to the 10% increase secured in Budget 2024.Speaking about the increase before moving to the Department of Education and Youth, then-Justice Minister for Justice Helen McEntee said: “I am delighted to have been able to make further progress in restoring criminal legal aid fees. The past two years have seen an 18% increase in the fees paid under the Criminal Legal Aid Scheme to ensure that the vital profession of criminal law remains attractive to the legal profession. I would like to express my appreciation for the ongoing co-operation of the Bar Council and Law Society and look forward to continued engagement with both representative bodies on the reform of Criminal Legal Aid, including the modernisation and funding structure of the scheme.”

STREET STYLE Gardaí across the country started sporting changes to their uniforms in January, with a baseball cap trialled in Dublin, Cork and Galway for a month last year now o cially replacing the traditional garda dress cap. Feedback from gardaí said the traditional cap was cumbersome and prone to getting knocked o . In a statement, An Garda said the new cap was “more suitable” when “responding to fast-paced and dynamic situations”. Thermal gilets have also been issued a ter gardaí complained that the latest iteration of the on-patrol uniform introduced last year – a two-tone so t shell jacket, waterproof jacket, polo shirt, trousers and practical base layers – were not warm enough. Although the traditional formal uniform and dress cap will still be worn to court proceedings and high-level meetings, An Garda said the new thermal gilet, which will be worn either as a layer if on outdoor operational duty, or as outer wear when indoors such as at the station will be “giving street style” to its members.

PORTLAOISE STATION WORKS BEGIN

e historic building on Abbeyleix Road that has housed Portlaoise Garda Station since 1931 closed for major renovations in January, with some 200 sta temporarily redeployed at Grattan House on the nearby Dublin Road. Two portable buildings at the front of the station will continue to be manned to assist the public, but the rest of the building, originally constructed as a military barracks in 1808, will see extensive redevelopment worth €25million that will see the station become the new Laois-O aly Divisional Headquarters. is includes the construction of a three-storey o ce block and major refurbishment of parts of the old building. It is estimated that the station will be completed by mid-2027. From January, prisoners awaiting a court appearance in Portlaoise are now held in Abbeyleix Garda Station or Tullamore Garda Station. Outgoing Taoiseach Simon Harris and Justice Minister Helen McEntee turned the sod on the site in November 2024 as part of the Justice Department’s €62m investment in the Garda estate that will include projects in Macroom, Clonmel and Newcastlewest.

HOME SECURITY FOR POLITICIANS

Only 11 politicians had availed of an allowance put in place to improve security at the homes and o ces of TDs and senators by the end of January this year, with payments of just €25,500 in total made. The security requirements allowance (SRA) was introduced in 2023 amid growing concern for the safety of politicians following a number of incidents of harassment, aggressive protest and intimidation. Under the scheme, politicians can claim for security costs such as intruder alarms, panic buttons and CCTV if advised by a Garda crime prevention o cer, and although the cap on payments rose from €5,000 to €25,000 at the end of 2024, the low uptake is believed to be because of the low reimbursement rate of 50% and the requirement to co-fund any works done.

SCOOTER AND SCRAMBLER POLICY CHANGE

Gardaí can now pursue people driving scramblers, scooters and electronic bikes in a dangerous fashion a ter a change in policy at the start of this year. Recently enacted legislation allows gardaí to seize these vehicles, but until now gardaí could only enter the area around a house to seize them and needed a warrant to arrest the driver. It has been reported that drivers aware of this non-pursuit policy have taunted gardaí by driving in front of them and around patrol cars, but recognising that these vehicles can be unsafe, combined with a rise in the number of crimes being committed by people driving scramblers, scooters and electronic bikes, has seen Commissioner Harris state that they can be pursued “if it is appropriate, proportionate and necessary to do so”. He added: “We recognise the growth in very powerful electric bikes to facilitate criminality and obviously we have to be in a position to deal with that and we will.”

THE ROAD SAFETY CHALLENGE

New Measures to Tackle Dangerous Driving to Come But Fatality Numbers Remain High

Although the total number of fatalities on Irish roads fell by 4% last year, the start of 2025 saw alarming gures as, by the end of February, there was, on average, a road death recorded every two days. is highlights the ongoing challenge faced by An Garda Síochána to realise the Vison Zero target of no fatalities on our roads by 2050.

By the end of the eight week of the year, 24 people had lost their lives on Irish roads, which included 14 drivers, one passenger, six pedestrians, two motorcyclists and one pedal cyclist.

Over the course of 2024, 174 people were killed on our roads as a result of a total of 160 fatal collisions. ough this is down from 181 in 2023, it is still far too high, and with increased roads policing numbers and man-hours deployed, it points to an element of recklessness by road users that An Garda and Government are continuously trying to address.

Dublin (23), Mayo (19), Cork (19) and Donegal (17) recorded the highest number of deaths last year, accounting for 45% of all fatalities, with a high proportion of those being young male drivers (35% were 25 or younger).

FOCUS

Speaking in January when the statistics for 2024 were published, Minister of State with Special Responsibility for Road Safety, James Lawless, outlined the focus the new Government is putting on improving these

gures to reduce the number of avoidable tragedies on Irish roads.

“Every single one of these deaths on our roads is a tragedy,” he said. “We extend deepest sympathies to the friends, families and communities a ected by these losses. I would also like to pay tribute to the emergency services, rst responders, hospital workers and others who do such incredible work helping people on scene and in the a ermath of these events.

“ e work of my Department is focused on making our roads safer for everyone who uses them. is year we will also be moving into Phase 2 of the Government’s

Road Safety Strategy, and it is incumbent on all of us to play our part in achieving our goal of halving deaths and serious injuries by 2030.”

EFFORTS

Sam Waide, Chief Executive of the Road Safety Authority (RSA), said: “With heavy hearts, we mourn the loss of 174 lives to road tra c collisions this year, and our deepest thoughts are with the devastated families le grieving a loved one in 2024, including at Christmas. Despite this profound loss, the reduction in the number of fatalities on Irish roads this year is a very

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modest but important step in reversing the high number of road deaths we’ve seen over the past two years. is progress underscores the urgency to intensify our e orts. To truly turn the tide, as part of the Government’s Road Safety Strategy, we must harness more technology, deliver impactful awareness campaigns and continue road safety education, to create a safer future for all road users in Ireland.”

Assistant Commissioner Paula Hilman, Roads Policing and Community Engagement, An Garda Síochána, added: “ is slight reduction in the number of road fatalities on Irish roads, is of no solace to the families and loved ones of each one of the people that were killed in fatal road tra c collisions during 2024. I extend my deepest sympathies to all of those a ected and at what must be a devastating time.

“An Garda Síochána has been working around the clock every day of this year to help keep road users safe. at work spans both education and enforcement. Gardaí have delivered our Lifesaver Project to thousands of adults and teenagers nationwide during 2024 in a hope of highlighting the dangers of poor driver behaviour, and over the next twelve months we will extend that further.

“Gardaí have conducted more than 100,000 checkpoints on Irish roads this year, half of which were Mandatory Intoxicant Testing. We continue the roll out of safety speed cameras in high-risk locations and are already seeing positive indications that drivers are slowing

IT IS INCUMBENT ON ALL OF US TO PLAY OUR PART IN ACHIEVING OUR GOAL OF HALVING DEATHS AND SERIOUS INJURIES BY 2030”

down in these areas. We also continue to maximise the technology available to us to support data driven roadside policing including Mobility Devices and Automated Number Plate Recognition systems in Garda vehicles.

“As members of An Garda Síochána we cannot achieve any meaningful reduction in the number of people killed on Irish roads without the public’s full support. As we enter a new year, we urge all drivers to drive safely and slow down.”

SPEED LIMITS

Minister of State Lawless also outlined some of the measures that are being put in place to improve road safety this year, most notable of which is the reduction of speed limits on hundreds of rural roads throughout the country, from 80kmh to 60kmh, which came into e ect in February.

“ e default speed limit on rural local roads will be reduced, following the recommendation of the 2023 Speed Limit Review,” he said. “ is will tackle one of the biggest contributory factors to road collisions: Speed.”

e speed limit in urban areas such as housing estates and town centres is also set to be reduced from 50kmh to 30kmh this year, with limits on national secondary roads reducing from 100kmh to 80kmh.

Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien said: “ is speed limit reduction will save lives, because driving slower saves lives. Driving at a lower speed means that if you get into a collision, either as a driver or a vulnerable road user, death or serious injury is a signi cantly less likely outcome. It also means you are less likely to be involved in a collision at all.

“Death and serious injuries on our roads

are not inevitable, they are preventable through tangible, sensible measures. is Government is taking action to reduce road fatalities and serious injuries.”

Minister of State at the Department of Transport Sean Canney said: “Today’s speed limit change is an outcome of many years of consultation, deliberation and engagement across the system, most notably from the evidence base of the 2023 Speed Limit Review and close collaboration with local authorities who are implementing this reduction. is welcome change will give us all safer roads.

“Systemic changes like this speed limit reduction and road safety education –along with enforcement – have helped us signi cantly bring down road deaths, but in recent years this trend has worryingly reversed. Together, we can make our roads safer, by observing the speed limit, driving safely and looking out for one another on rural local roads.”

INVESTMENT

e new Government also announced an investment programme of €713million for regional and local roads for this year, part of which will go towards improving the condition of roads throughout the country to reduce the number of collisions.

Minister of State Canney said: “ is crucial funding will enhance road safety, with funding being allocated for over 330 safety projects this year, an increase of 20% from last year. ese safety schemes aim to implement remedial measures to improve the overall safety of our road network, bene ting all road users. Increasing funding in safety projects is vital in reducing road fatalities and serious injuries, and helps to create a safer transport environment for all.” ese upgrades and improvements can’t come soon enough, but they need to be combined with driver education and strictly enforced penalties to get the message across that reckless or dangerous driving can be lethal – something that many road users just don’t seem to be taking on board.

OPERATION

is can be seen in the gures released by An Garda Síochána following the rst major roads policing operation of 2025, which took place over the St Brigid’s Bank Holiday Weekend, beginning on ursday,

30 January and concluding on Tuesday, 4 February.

Gardaí conducted both statutory Mandatory Intoxicant Testing (MIT) and regular, high-visibility policing checkpoints during this time, with just under 200 drivers arrested on suspicion of driving under the in uence of an intoxicant (alcohol and drugs). Frighteningly, more than 2,200 drivers were detected for speeding o ences during the ve-day operation. is was despite the fact that fewer people were on the roads because of the e ects of Storm Eowyn.

Some of the more notable speeding o ences included a vehicle travelling at 126kmh in a 60kmh zone in Limerick, a vehicle travelling at 142kmh in an 80kmh zone, also in Limerick, a vehicle travelling at 166kmh in a 100kmh zone in Wicklow, a vehicle travelling at 190kmh in a 100kmh zone in Mayo, and a vehicle travelling at a staggering 206kmh in a 120kmh zone in Galway.

MEASURES

With this in mind, further measures are being taken this year in addition to the reduction in speed limits. Average speed cameras will have an increasing presence on Irish roads as they are being introduced on a phased level, while from the end of March, all motorists must provide their Driver Number and that of any named drivers to their insurer to cut down on uninsured drivers on our roads.

is year will also see the introduction of new cameras at tra c lights to catch motorists breaking red lights. A phased approach will see cameras brought in to Dublin rst before being rolled out across the country, with nes of €80 being processed automatically.

Government is also considering the introduction of re-education courses for drivers caught speeding, while the Department of Transport has proposed a review of the graduated penalties approach to speeding and other road tra c o ences.

Let’s hope that, as the year progresses, these steps will see a reduction in the needless loss of lives on our roads, but as always, it is up to the public to heed the strong messages being issued by An Garda Síochána and the RSA and to drive safely and carefully.

NEW JUSTICE MINISTER

Jim O’Callaghan Replaces Helen McEntee in Reformed Justice Ministry

Barrister and Fianna Fáil

TD Jim O’Callaghan was named as the new Minister for Justice, Home A airs and Migration in the new government formed in January. He replaces Helen McEntee, who led the department of Justice since 2020, and has been appointed Minister for Education and Youth. James Browne, previously a Minister of State in the Department, has been promoted to the Cabinet as Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage.

REFORM

e move comes as new Taoiseach Micheál Martin says the Department will be “signi cantly reformed” to focus on community safety and to incorporate the migration remit.

“Ensuring the safety of our communities, the ability to walk the streets or be in your own home without fear, is a fundamental responsibility of government,” the Taoiseach said upon the appointment of Minister O’Callaghan. “We need to improve the level and impact of community policing, and we need to address new forms of behaviour which are causing great damage.

“In addition, we will address the fact that government activity on migration is too dispersed and requires more direct leadership. A new division of the Department of Justice will take responsibility for the control of our borders, the management of immigration and coordination of integration. is will be headed by a secretary general with a distinct budget and more direct oversight.”

CAREER

Mr O’Callaghan was called to the Bar in 1993 and to the Inner Bar in 2003, and served on Dublin City Council from 2009 until his election to the Dáíl in 2016 as TD for Dublin Bay South. He was appointed as Fianna Fáíl Spokesperson for Justice and Equality in May, 2016, and dra ed the Parole Bill that reformed the parole system, giving victims of crime and their families the right to be heard during the parole process. He was appointed as the party’s spokesperson on justice matters in December of 2020.

Minister O’Callaghan, who is a brother of broadcaster Miriam O’Callaghan, also served as a legal advisor to Fianna Fáil from January 2011 to 2016

He has a BCL degree from UCD, a Master’s degree in law and an M Phil in Criminology from Sidney Sussex College, Cambridge, and a Barrister-AtLaw degree from King’s Inns.

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CELEBRATING YOUNG ACHIEVERS

The National Garda Youth Awards Recognised the Outstanding Work of Young People

The work of young people and groups aged between 13 and 21 was acknowledged and celebrated at the annual National Garda Youth Awards last November.

e event took place at the Midlands Park Hotel in Portlaoise on 16 November, with Garda Commissioner Drew Harris presenting 24 awards to those who have made a positive contribution to their community through outstanding projects, bravery and dedication.

A national panel selected the 24 recipients most deserving of recognition across a number of areas.

COMMUNITY SAFETY

Orlaith Heaney from Hollymount in Co Mayo was one of the recipients of a Community Safety Award. She noticed that the number of road tra c accidents and fatalities in her area was on the rise, and began conducting an extensive study of the county’s roads, researching road design and construction, and determining the ideal conditions for driving. She also collected data on driver behaviour and statistics from the NCT and RSA, and worked with Mayo Roads Policing gardaí to gather information about dangerous driving.

Orlaith built reconstructions of road curves and cambers to analyse the factors a ecting driver behaviour and compiled a 59-page report which she presented to the 2024 EU Road Safety Conference, and which was read by the Minister of Transport, the RSA

and numerous EU ministers. She is now a member of the RSA Youth Advisory Panel.

Also on the subject of road safety, Westmeath Comhairle na nÓg were presented with a Community Safety Award for organising a road safety event for Transition Year students across Westmeath, working with road safety education groups from across the county and reaching out to every school in the Midlands. More than 1,600 students attended on the day to listen to talks from tra c accident survivors, experience simulated crashes and learn how to administer rst aid.

Raising awareness around farm safety, St Leo’s College Young Social Innovators in Carlow were another group who picked up a Community Safety Award. e students dedicated more than 180 hours

of their free time to research how and why farm accidents occur, publishing a farm safety booklet and creating a video supported by social media that were both disseminated across the country to primary school students.

Other recipients who received a Community Safety Award included Aisha Alameen Betro from Balbriggan, whose AED Initiative succeeded in receiving EU nding to support work into automated external de brillators in the community, and Ciara and Saoirse Murphy from Tralee, whose Aid, Care, Treat (ACT) app was designed to support emergency healthcare responses, with built-in tracking. e sisters are no strangers to awards, with their app going on to win them the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition’s top prize in January.

The Garda Youth Awards selection committee

BELOW

SPECIAL ACHIEVEMENT

Special Achievement Awards were presented to young people who have shown bravery in overcoming extreme challenges to inspire their communities. Michael Dennedy from Laois/O aly was one recipient. Losing a leg a year ago, he bravely powered through and insisted on returning to school within days of leaving hospital, remaining exceptionally positive throughout his ordeal and refusing to let his injury prevent him from achieving anything he sets his sights on.

Liam Costelloe from Limerick also received an award. One week before starting secondary school, doctors found a tumour on his optic nerve and within days was undergoing surgery, a er which he developed meningitis and required further

surgery. He began rehabilitation to learn how to walk again, but showed great determination to return to school and see his friends again.

A testament to resilience and the impact of volunteering, John Beary from Wexford was also presented with an award. Diagnosed with a rare genetic condition a ecting vital bodily systems called Melas Syndrome, he volunteered for a groundbreaking study at Temple Street Children’s Hospital to advance the understanding and diagnostic process of Melas Syndrome, which led to two of his family also being diagnosed and receiving necessary care. A member of the Order of Malta, John has also quali ed as a First Aid Responder and Emergency First Responder.

Courtney Maughan from West Dublin was another recipient of a Special Achievement Award, as was Seán Og

Boland from Kildare, who su ered a fractured femur while playing football and was then diagnosed with a rare congenital birth defect that a ected his knees and meant he had to undergo ve operations in 12 months. Extensive rehab was required, but Seán stayed positive and started working as a volunteer coach with Sallins GAA as soon as he could walk again, before returning to high-level football.

GROUP AWARDS

In the Group Award category, Enniscorthy Youthreach were awarded in recognition of their e orts in raising mental health awareness through their ‘You Never Walk Alone’ project that saw them run a Mental Health Awareness Week that included a tea party, nature walk and mass. ey are the only school in Wexford to receive the FET Mental Health and Well Being Accreditation.

LEFT: Ciara and Saoirse

Murphy RIGHT: Liam Costelloe

RIGHT: John Beary

BELOW: Cormac Petrie

Aisha Alameen Betro

Our Garda National Youth Awards are about recognising the incredible work done by young people in communities all over Ireland for the sake of others”

Other recipients included Walk ‘Cause You Can from West Cork, Raheny All Stars from North Dublin, e Big Tree from West Dublin, and Go Yellow from Mayo/Roscommon/ Longford.

INDIVIDUAL AWARDS

Aisling Sexton from Limerick, who won the Limerick Family Carer of the Year Award in 2023, was one of the recipients of an Individual Award. When her mother developed a serious lung condition, Aisling devoted herself to providing the care she needed throughout many months in ICU. Aisling also began a grassroots campaign to fundraise the money needed to cover essential bills, raising more than €30,000 through walks and tractor runs while studying for her Leaving Certi cate.

Similarly inspiring stories saw Luke Graham from Dublin South Central, James Casserly from West Dublin, Cara Darmody from Clare/Tipperary and Daniel Spaight, also from Clare/ Tipperary, also pick up Individual Awards.

SPECIAL RECOGNITION

Special Recognition Awards went to young people who showed tremendous bravery and quick actions to save a life. Tyrone Donoghue from Westmeath received his award for risking his own life to save a baby from a buggy that had rolled into a canal, despite the fact he can’t swim. Similarly, Cormac Petrie

from Mayo/Roscommon/Longford was awarded for his heroic e orts in saving the life of a person who got into di culty while swimming in Lough Ree. Eimear O’Loughlin from Clare/ Tipperary also collected an award, as well as Freya Maher from Laois/O aly, who saved the life of her horse riding instructor when she was thrown from her mount. Freya quickly checked her instructor for a pulse and began CPR compressions while simultaneously calling an ambulance.

All of these young people’s stories are an inspiration to us all and prove that they play an invaluable part in their communities.

Speaking at the event, Paula Hilman, Assistant Commissioner for Road Safety and Community Engagement, said: “Our Garda National Youth Awards are about recognising the incredible work done by young people in communities all over Ireland for the sake of others.

“ ey o en don’t get enough credit for the variety of challenges they face in today’s society and particularly for how they responded to the di culties they encounter, but they support one another and help their communities with great enthusiasm.

“Each one of this year’s recipients demonstrate all that is wonderful about our young people, and as Gardaí we are so proud of their hard work. We hope the Garda National Youth Awards are a tting acknowledgement of the positive and meaningful contribution that these young people are making to society.”

LEFT: Michael Dennedy with his family RIGHT: Students from St Leo’s College

Freya Maher

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RECRUITMENT CAMPAIGN LAUNCHED

Benefits of a Career With An Garda Síochána Underlined in New Campaign

The latest Garda recruitment campaign launched on 6 February, with candidates urged to consider the bene ts that come with a career in An Garda Síochána.

Following the changes to the recruitment policy that sees the age limit for new applicants rise from 35 to 50, as well as the retirement age from 60 to 62, the demographic of those who may consider joining the organisation has widened to attract as many people as possible.

PROMOTION

Some €375,000 was invested into the recruitment competition’s promotional campaign that once again had the tagline of “It’s a Job Worth Doing”, with advertisements across television, national and local print and radio, online, on outdoor billboards and bus stations, in cinemas and across social media platforms.

e bene ts of the job were outlined in the new recruitment campaign, stating that Garda Trainees will graduate with a Level 7 Bachelor of Arts Degree in Applied Policing accredited by the University of Limerick, while being paid €354 per week for the 36 weeks of training, with food and accommodation free while resident in the Garda College.

BENEFITS

Once the successful applicants have completed the 36 weeks of training, they will now start on a salary of more than €37,000, which rises incrementally, and as they are assigned to the core shi roster, there will be additional allowances and the opportunity to work overtime. On top of that, newly attested gardaí will have access to the Fast Accrual (Uniformed) Members Pension Scheme that allows members to build up pension bene ts at a higher rate each year, the Doctors of Choice GP scheme, and the Medical Aid Scheme, as well as access to numerous Garda societies and clubs and Garda Credit Unions.

REWARDING

Launching the three-week campaign, Commissioner Drew Harris described a garda career as “exciting, challenging and rewarding, where no two days look the same”.

He added: “ ose who are successful in this recruitment round will have the opportunity to work in areas such as investigating organised crime, domestic violence, public order, fraud, drugs o ences, community policing and roads policing - to name but a few.

“In their day-to-day work Gardaí operate on the frontline ghting crime, supporting victims and witnesses, and working in partnership with communities. ey make

a positive, tangible di erence in the lives of citizens.

“We support lifelong learning in An Garda Síochána and there’s always room for advancement within the organisation and opportunities for promotion or specialisation.”

He also underlined the drive for more diversity within the ranks of An Garda Síochána, and encouraged people from all backgrounds to consider applying.

“It is extremely important that we are fully representative of the people we serve,” he said. “ is recruitment campaign provides an opportunity to draw in more applicants from a wider variety of backgrounds. I want to appeal particularly to underrepresented communities and also to women to consider joining An Garda Síochána: we are a good employer, and we o er really worthwhile work. Ensuring An Garda Síochána is comprised of members from a variety of backgrounds means di erent viewpoints and experiences are being brought to the table.”

Since Garda recruitment recommenced with trainees entering the Garda College

in December 2022, almost 1,500 have commenced their training, almost 1,000 have been attested as members of the organisation, and almost 450 are currently in training.

EXPERIENCES

As part of the promotional campaign, Garda Trainees shared their thoughts on why they wanted to start a career with An Garda Síochána. Megan yne said she wanted to become a Garda “because I enjoy helping others, it’s a really rewarding job”. She also said: “You meet lots of di erent people from di erent walks of life. I’m also from a very sporting background, so very heavily involved in teamwork, and so I believe this job is very teamwork-orientated.”

Former re ghter William Connaughton has experience of working with gardaí while out at calls on re appliances, and when the age limit was raised, he saw it as a great opportunity. “I got massive life experience from the re service,” he says, “and I’m hoping to apply

This recruitment campaign provides an opportunity to draw in more applicants from a wider variety of backgrounds”

the experience I got from that to An Garda Síochána. I look forward to being able to apply all the things I learned in the re service and help my teammates and colleagues along the way.”

Craig O’Neill applied to be a Garda a er living abroad since leaving school, and says it was always something he wanted to do because “I wanted the job for a bit of variety and didn’t think an o ce job would be for me,” while Jane Blake, a former Defence Forces member who served in Lebanon says “I nd this job very rewarding and challenging”.

PHYSICAL ATTRACTION

Garda Fitness Test Requirements

Relaxed to Encourage More Applicants

Having increased the age limit for potential applicants who are considering a career in the police service to 50 in order to attract more candidates with a broader range of life experience, An Garda Síochána has now updated the Physical Competency Test to better re ect the abilities of those applying. An external review of the Garda Physical Competency Test, which must be passed by all Garda Trainee

Applicants as part of the applications process, was carried out by Dr Michael McCorry of the Department of Humanities at Dundalk Institute of Technology in 2024 to ensure it achieved the best result for the requirements of being a member of the organisation. is review was assisted by Garda Trainers from the Garda College and Operational members and tested by hundreds of operational and trainee gardaí.

REASSURANCE

In a statement in February, An Garda said: “ e new Garda Physical Competency Test continues to provide An Garda Síochána with a reassurance that prospective Garda Trainee candidates possess the acceptable level of preemployment physical tness.

“It continues to be re ective of the physical demands experience by a Garda, robust enough to discriminate between individuals who can or cannot meet the physical demands of the job, valid enough to ensure all physically competent individuals can achieve the required

standard, is scienti cally-based to ensure standards are justi able and reliable, and is inclusive of margins for error to ensure all individuals are treated fairly and equitably.”

FAILURE RATE

e changes to the Test have been deemed necessary due to a high rate of failure in recent years. According to gures released last year, some 162 out of 520 candidates failed the pre-entry test in 2023, with almost half of all females (80 out of 171) not meeting the required physical tness level.

Age doesn’t seem to have been a major factor, however, with candidates under the age of 26 actually performing worse

than their older counterparts. Of the 11 females aged 20 or under, ve failed, while in the 21 to 25 age group, only 45 out of 81 female candidates passed, representing a 55% failure rate. Of the 57 women between 26 and 30, only 35 passed, and in the 31 to 35 age group, seven out of 22 did not meet requirements.

Of the 16 males under 20 who applied, only two failed, the 141 males aged between 21 and 25 saw 41 not making the grade, the 125 between 26 and 30 saw 21 failing, and among the 66 aged between 31 and 35, 18 did not pass.

In 2023, Fianna Fáil TD Jim O’Callaghan – now the Minister for Justice - raised concerns in the Dáil that the physical test may have been too

ABOVE: Garda Trainees attempting the beep test. RIGHT: The Garda Physical Competency Test has been updated

demanding and was potentially acting as a barrier to recruitment, given that one in six applicants were failing it. is led to the review mentioned above.

CHANGES

e updated Test no longer requires candidates to complete a number of pushups and sit-ups. It has two components consisting of a 20metre multi-stage tness test, also known as a beep test, immediately followed by an obstacle course, with a requirement to pass both components in a time of 8minutes and 4 seconds, or less. is pass time now applies to all candidates regardless of age or gender.

In the beep test, candidates must successfully complete the 20metre component to Level 5.6 in a time of 4mins 54 seconds, whereas previously the required score was between 4.9 and 8.5 depending on age and/or gender.

Candidates must run from one line to another 20metres apart, keeping to the speed indicated by the beeps on an audio track, to a total of 760metres. e speed increases at the end of each minute, and having successfully reached the last beep at the required level, they can commence the second component: the obstacle course. is course, which consists of a sprint start, weaving through cones, walking along a balance beam, li ing a car wheel and carrying it 3metres, ducking underneath a barrier, jumping over a 1metre mat, pushing and pulling a sled 6metres each, running up and down a ight of stairs, climbing over a gate and sprinting another 10metres, requires candidates to complete two circuits in less than 3minutes 10 seconds. Should they fail to complete any of these components, candidates must repeat it while their recorded time continues.

OPINION

e relaxation of the physical component of the application process has met with mixed views. Speaking on national radio, former Garda Inspector Pat Marry said he is in favour of relaxing the tness test, adding that it was a positive thing because it could encourage older people to consider joining the force.

“I’m thinking about people who are, let’s say, 50 years of age or under,” he said.

The new Garda Physical Competency Test continues to provide a reassurance that prospective Garda Trainee candidates possess the acceptable level of pre-employment physical fitness”

“Some of them may be married, they’ll have children, they’ll have life experience. eir life experience will pay into some of the jobs they may be doing... they may be able to bring something far greater than the ordinary policeman who is maybe 19 or 20 years of age and hasn’t worked in the wider world before joining. ey’re going to get a lot of people who are going to bring a lot of pluses with them.”

Speaking on the same programme, Professor of Health and Human Performance Dr Niall Moyna disagreed, describing the move as a “retrograde step”.

“I think there’s a minimum standard that’s required to function as a garda,” he said. “Just think about the physicality involved in being a garda, that they work ten-hour shi s over four days or 12-hour shi s. ey can be called upon at any time. If you start this downward momentum, where are we going to be in ten years time?”

He said that in his view, more could be done to upkeep tness levels of gardaí throughout their careers.

“I would have a much bigger issue with the maintenance of tness rather than the than the entry tness,” he argued. “ at’s an issue that really needs to be addressed ... I think there needs to be a cultural shi in the thinking. ey do this test once, they’re never tested again for the rest of their career ... we spend €2billion a year on the gardaí. I’m sure we can put a little bit aside to actually assess this to a much greater depth.”

COMPARISON

So, how does this updated Physical Competency Test compare to the requirements in other countries and jurisdictions?

Our nearest neighbours in the UK also use a beep test, though the conditions are not as stringent as the new Garda requirements, involving shuttle runs on a 15metre track with all candidates having

to reach a 5.4 level. For speci c roles requiring a greater level of tness, such as dog handlers, police cyclists and drivers, a higher score is required.

In the United States, tness tests can vary greatly by region, but generally include a combination of sit-ups, pushups, a bench press, a sprint and a 2.4km run to be completed in 18 minutes or less. Some states also require candidates to complete an obstacle course.

Australia also has speci cations that vary by region, but in general their requirements are much more di cult than the new Irish standards. Several regions require candidates to undergo push-ups, a plant test, an agility run, a beep test with a required score of between 5 and 6.1, a walking pace carry of a 40kg weight over 100metres, and a 100metre swim.

In Italy, those applying for the police force must complete a 1km run in under 3minutes 50 seconds (men) or 4minutes 55 seconds (women), a long jump of 1.2metres (men) or 1metre (women), and 15 push-ups (men) or 10 push-ups (women).

Tests vary from region to region in Spain, but the most common set includes a 1km run, a 60metre sprint, a swimming test of 25 or 50 metres and a medicine ball test, pullups, long jump and exibility tests.

While any changes that will bring more candidates to the Garda recruitment drive, and therefore potentially more successful applicants who can join the ranks of An Garda Síochána, can only be seen as a positive move, Dr Moyna raises a valid point regarding maintaining tness levels once Garda Trainees become full operational members. Given the range of improvements being introduced within the organisation regarding health, it is hopefully only a matter of time before we see this recommendation being taken on board to ensure our police force continues to be made up of t and capable personnel.

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MEDALS OF HONOUR

Scott Medals for

Bravery Were

Presented to Members Who Went Above and Beyond

Eight members of An Garda Síochána were honoured with the Scott Medal, the highest accolade that can be bestowed upon a member, at a ceremony held at the end of last September.

Attended by then-Justice Minister Helen McEntee, Garda Commissioner Drew Harris, Minister of State James Browne and Assistant Commissioner for the Eastern Region Paul Cleary, the ceremony was particularly poignant as it marked 100 years since the rst

Scott Medal was awarded by Colonel Walter Scott to Garda James Mulroy for his bravery, having been held up by two armed men on his way home from duty in Co Clare in 1923.

e Scott Medal is awarded to Gardaí who, as Colonel Walter Scott put it himself, “have distinguished themselves for valour in the performance of their duties”. ey are a very special recognition and are only awarded to members that have demonstrated exemplary skill and decision-making while in immediate danger and under signi cant pressure.

ABOVE: Recipients and family members representing those awarded Scott Medals with Garda Commissioner Drew Harris and then-Justice Minister Helen McEntee. BELOW: The Scott Medal Award

DENIS O’BRIEN

A Gold Scott medal was presented posthumously to the family of the late Detective Sergeant Denis O’Brien, who had been targeted by IRA members as he le his home in Rathfarnham, Dublin in his car on 9 September, 1942. He was ambushed by three paramilitaries with sub-machine guns, managing to ee his car and return shots, but as he attempted to get to safety, a fourth gunman who was lying in wait fatally wounded him. One of the gunmen was subsequently arrested and convicted, and sentenced to death by hanging. e medal was accepted by Det Sgt O’Brien’s granddaughters, Orla and Meabh McKeown. Orla said the family was “very proud and very honoured”, adding that it was “a very emotional day for us all”, especially as the medal was being received on the 82nd anniversary of his murder. She also said that her deceased grandfather’s “artistic endeavours would go completely against activities of a guard”, but had been passed down to many of his grandchildren. “Even the smallest, the youngest of them... I heard a story this morning; his great, great grandson heard his name on the radio and said ‘Mammy, wow, that’s him on the radio’. So it’s lovely to see the interest going down through the generations, and the pride and the consciousness in a seven- or eight-year-old of the honour that has been done.”

JOHN CURTIN

Also receiving a posthumous Gold Scott Medal was the late Superintendent John Curtin, whose nephew Michael Curtin accepted the award on his family’s behalf. On 21 March, 1931, Superintendent Curtin was conducting a late night inspection of Golden Garda Station, Co Tipperary. ere was criminal paramilitary activity in the area throughout this period of time and despite being threatened by way of letter in November 1930, Superintendent Curtin carried out his duty diligently at a time of great uncertainty. In the days prior to his death, he brought a number of suspects before the Circuit Court in Clonmel in relation to paramilitary activity. On the night in question, Superintendent Curtin returned to his house late and found the gates to his house had been closed. As he exited his car to open the gates, armed gunmen who had hidden behind a wall revealed themselves and opened re, shooting him a number of times and fatally wounding him. Superintendent Curtin was unarmed at the time, and died that night.

MORGAN LAHIFFE

A Bronze Scott Medal was also posthumously awarded to Detective Garda Morgan Lahi e, which was received by his wife Jean. On 20 August, 1971, then-Garda Morgan Lahi e was on duty at Togher Garda Station when he received a phone call from Union Quay Communications Room stating that three armed raiders had entered the nearby Five Star Supermarket. Garda Lahi e, accompanied by Garda Gerry O’Sullivan, responded to the call. On arrival at the scene, they made their way inside the Supermarket, where Garda Lahi e observed a masked man at the far end of the shop. e masked raider ran towards Garda Lahi e and Garda O’Sullivan, pointing his gun at them, and ordered the Gardaí to get out of the shop. Garda Lahi e and Garda O’Sullivan refused to leave the shop, and a second armed raider came from an o ce to the le of the Gardaí and also ordered them to leave. Garda Lahi e and Garda O’Sullivan were forced to retreat, and as the armed raiders le the premises to make good their escape, both Gardaí were again threatened at gunpoint. e armed raiders got into a car and drove away, pursued by Garda Lahi e and Garda O’Sullivan. Garda O’Sullivan got out of the car at a phone box to alert Headquarters and request assistance. Garda Lahi e followed the armed raiders to the College Road area where he was joined by other Garda members, in a marked patrol car. Garda Lahi e provided details to these members who took up the search for the armed raiders. One of the armed raiders attempted to escape on foot and the Garda members gave chase. Subsequently the armed raiders were apprehended.

WARREN FARRELL & NIAMH CONNAUGHTON

Also receiving Bronze Scott Medals were Detective Garda Warren Farrell and Sergeant Niamh Connaughton for their work in overpowering a criminal armed with a gun during an o -licence robbery. On 27 March, then-Gardaí Farrell and Connaughton were on patrol in a marked patrol van when Garda Connaughton saw a white Ford Transit van pull up ahead of them outside the Carry Out O Licence. Gardaí Farrell and Connaughton then observed two males alight from this vehicle and run into the Carry Out O Licence with their hoods up and their faces concealed. Garda Farrell brought the patrol van to a stop outside the o licence and witnessed a robbery taking place inside. One male was observed by Gardaí on top of the counter trying to prise the till open with a screwdriver while the other male appeared to be threatening a female sta member at gunpoint. Garda Farrell entered the o licence followed by Garda Connaughton in the full knowledge that both of the males were armed. Garda Farrell identi ed himself, but the male armed with a handgun jumped back over the counter and ran down an aisle on the shop oor, followed by his accomplice. Both Gardaí remained at the entrance to the shop to

prevent both males from leaving. e male with the handgun stood up from behind a pallet of beer and pointed his handgun at both Gardaí. e situation was volatile and both Gardaí feared for their safety and that of the public, both inside and outside the premises. Both males ran towards the Gardaí in their attempt to escape and a struggle ensued. Garda Farrell attempted to apprehend the male armed with a

screwdriver while Garda Connaughton deployed her incapacitant spray towards the male with the handgun. Garda Connaughton was violently assaulted during the struggle. Garda Farrell went to his colleague’s assistance to restrain the male with the handgun, eventually subduing and disarming him, and made an arrest. e male with the screwdriver who had managed to escape was later arrested.

KIERAN FLYNN & JOSEPH FINNEGAN

Gardaí who performed the rst-ever rescue of survivors by the force’s underwater unit were also awarded Bronze Scott Medals for bravery over challenges they faced during the dangerous cave rescue in Co Mayo more than 25 years ago. Sergeant Kieran Flynn and Inspector Joseph Finnegan were part of the Garda Underwater Unit in October 1997 when they were alerted to a group of people trapped in a sea cave near Lady’s Bay, Belderrig, Co Mayo. Rescue conditions were extremely dangerous due to the weather conditions, sea current conditions, wave surges through the length of the sea cave and the fact that it was night-time. en-Gardaí Kieran Flynn and Joseph Finnegan successfully rescued three survivors from the sea cave, before a daylight operation was launched to recover the bodies of two men who had not survived. Conditions inside the cave had deteriorated, with 15 and 20 foot waves crashing into the cave, but in full knowledge of the dangerous conditions, Gardaí Flynn and Finnegan entered the water with a tow rope and large oating fenders. On the rocks at the back of the cave, they located the bodies of the two deceased men and guided the bodies through the breaking surf. is was a di cult and dangerous operation, which took almost one and a half hours and called for seamanship, co-ordination and bravery of the highest order from those involved in treacherous conditions.

These eight members went even beyond that and set aside their own fear and personal safety in view of saving lives”

ABOVE AND BEYOND

TIMOTHY MCSWEENEY

A Silver Scott Medal was awarded to Garda Timothy McSweeney for rescuing a woman and her young children from a dangerous domestic violent incident involving an intoxicated man armed with a knife in 2022. On 24 March of that year, a call was received by Gardaí to attend at a house in Douglas, Co Cork, where there was a domestic incident taking place and the injured party was in fear for her safety and that of her children. Garda Timothy McSweeney, who was on patrol in the area, responded to the call. He entered the house and spoke with a male who was intoxicated and in an agitated state and was demanding to see his children. e man made his way to the kitchen and grabbed a large knife from a kitchen drawer, holding it in a threatening manner towards Garda McSweeney. In order to protect himself and the occupants of the house, Garda McSweeney instinctively grabbed the man’s wrist with the intention of disarming him. A violent struggle ensued where Garda McSweeney su ered a number of knife wounds to his arms and an injury to his knee and back when he was dragged to the oor. e male continued to resist and made threats to kill Garda McSweeney, who continued to struggle with the man for some time until he managed to get him onto the ground, drew his baton and restrained him. Garda McSweeney managed to take possession of the knife and subsequently called for assistance. Responding to a domestic violence incident, the actions of Garda McSweeney prevented the risk of harm / loss of life to others in the household.

Speaking following the ceremony, Assistant Commissioner for the Eastern Region, Paul Cleary said: “Every day, Gardaí go out and conduct their duties to the very best of their ability - always with other people’s safety and preserving justice in mind. at’s what can sometimes make the job quite di cult but these eight members went even beyond that and set aside their own fear and personal safety in view of saving lives. “Today is a special and important recognition of their courage during these frightening incidents and they have now been rightfully awarded a Scott Medal Commendation. Both as Assistant Commissioner in this region and as their colleague in policing, I am very proud of each one. I have no doubt that their families and loved ones that joined us today are immensely proud also.” e annual honours are awarded by Comahirle na Míre Gaile – the Deeds of Bravery Council – which was founded in 1947 to enable State recognition of exceptional acts of bravery. e Council is chaired by the Ceann Comhairle and includes the Cathaoirleach of Seanad Éireann, the Lord Mayors of Dublin and Cork, the Garda Commissioner, the President of the Association of City & County Councils, and the Chairman of the Irish Red Cross.

TRUST IN GARDAÍ REMAINS HIGH

The Latest Available Public Attitudes Survey Shows An Garda Síochána Have a Healthy Relationship With the Community But Some Areas Can Improve

An Garda Síochána continues to hold a very high level of trust from the Irish public, according to the latest available figures published in the 2023 Public Attitudes Survey. In the survey of 7,682 people aged 18 or over and 835 young people aged 16 and 17 that was undertaken

Speaking about the survey findings, Garda Commissioner Drew Harris said: “I am pleased to see all of the positive feedback from those that took part in this independent study as it is a reflection of the consistent hard work of gardaí nationwide. “In order to continue building on the high level of public trust and satisfaction with the services that An Garda Síochána provide, we must listen and take on board the constructive views of those we serve. In a large organisation of more than 18,000 personnel all working towards the common goal of keeping people safe, there will always be areas in which we can strengthen our work. “There is much for us to take away from this survey, particularly in the area of keeping victims informed, to ensure that we are continually improving the vital service we provide to the people of Ireland.”

between February and December of 2023 by Ipsos B&A on behalf of An Garda Síochána, 89% of respondents say they trust the organisation. Encouragingly, nine out of ten young people say they trust gardaí, while 87% say they would be treated with respect by the Irish police service.

COMMUNITY

In line with previous surveys, the number of people who believe An Garda Síochána listen to and address the concerns of a community is high for the third consecutive year, with an emphasis on a community based approach to policing reflected as 75% of respondents agreed the force is community focused.

Close to 70% of respondents continue to either agree or strongly agree that the Gardaí in their area can be relied on to be there when they are needed.

75% 70%

Satisfaction with Garda service to local communities remained high in 2023, at 73%, although this is a 2% decrease from 2022.

The perception that national crime is a “very serious” or “serious” problem has decreased further to 72% following a 78% high in 2019”

The number of people who feel the organisation is human rights-focused has risen to 82% from 79% in 2022.

In terms of diversity, work does need to be done. Just over half (56%) agree that the force is representative of the diverse communities it serves, although this is up from 53% the previous year, and along with those aged 65 and older, non-Irish nationals hold the most positive views of the organisation. Workneed s to bedone

VISIBILITY

In terms of garda visibility, further work needs to be done. Only 41% of those surveyed had an awareness of Garda presence in their local area in 2023, which is 2% lower than in 2022 and 8% lower than in 2021. In addition to this, only 20% said they regularly see gardaí on patrol by car.

PRIORITIES

With regard to policing priorities, sexual o ences continued to be the most pressing issue among the vast majority of respondents (91%), regardless of gender, age or nationality. Domestic abuse was also rated as a high policing priority for respondents (90%). Human tra cking, assaults, drug o ences and illegal weapons also featured significantly.

Other positives include the perception that An Garda Síochána is e ective in tackling crime (64%), and both modern and progressive (69%).

The victimisation rate increased by 0.5% to 5.9% in 2023, with 75% of respondents saying they had reported their most recent crime incident to gardaí. The most common crimes experienced by victims were criminal damage, burglary, assault and online fraud.

For the second year in a row, 53% said they were satisfied with how their case was handled, although just under half (47%) of those that reported the crime felt the information received from gardaí was “about right”.

On a positive note, more than half (53%) of respondents to the survey said they have “no fears” or “very few fears” about crime in Ireland in general, with the same figure saying that fear of crime had little or no impact on their quality of life, and 42% saying they do not worry about being a victim of crime.

Continuing a trend from previous years, national crime was seen as more of a problem than local crime. The perception that national crime is a “very serious” or “serious” problem has decreased further to 72% following a 78% high in 2019, while those who considered local crime something of a problem has decreased from 49% in 2019 to 37% in 2023.

When asked if they would be treated with respect by gardaí if they had contact with them for any reason, 92% said they would, and 77% agreed or strongly agreed that they would be treated fairly by gardaí regardless of who they are. This is a 2% increase on the previous year.

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ON DUTY INJURY DECREASE

Incidents of Gardaí Hurt In Line of Duty

Dropped By Almost 20% In 2024

The number of gardaí injured while on duty fell by 19% last year, although approximately one in 25 of all members still su ered some type of physical harm in the course of their work during 2024.

New gures show a total of 555 gardaí su ered injuries while performing their duties last year (a decrease of 126 on 2023 numbers), with more than half sustained as a result of an assault.

ASSAULTS

ese include three gardaí who were injured during violent clashes in July with anti-immigration protesters outside the former Crown Paints factory in Coolock, which was earmarked to house international protection applicants. However, they do not include two oduty o cers who were seriously injured in an alleged assault on Dame Street in December.

In total, there were 309 separate incidents of gardaí being assaulted in the line of duty, with almost 10% being reported in the Garda division of Kerry. Although assaults on gardaí should never happen, the decrease in incidents suggests the increase in the maximum sentence for assaulting or threatening to assault a Garda or any other on duty emergency service worker from seven to

12 years brought in by Government in November 2023, is having an impact.

OTHER INJURIES

In terms of injuries overall, 4% of all frontline gardaí su ered some type of injury at work last year based on the latest Garda sta ng gures which relate to October 2024.

However, the rate was again above average in the Kerry division (12%), where 41 out of the 340 gardaí in the division experienced some type of injury, including 30 who were assaulted. ey included four o cers who were assaulted in April a er they had arrested a wheelchair-bound male who subsequently threatened to get terrorists he knew to bomb Killarney garda station.

Other divisions with above-average rates of workplace injuries to gardaí included Sligo-Leitrim, where 10% were recorded as being injured during 2024, as well as Clare-Tipperary (7%) and Galway and Louth-Cavan-Monaghan (both 6%).

Several Garda divisions recorded an injury rate among sta of 2% – half of the national average – including Dublin North Central, which has one of the highest crime rates in the country, as well as Kildare, Laois/O aly and Dublin South.

e highest number of gardaí injured in a single Garda division last year was 48 in Clare-Tipperary – a decrease of two compared to 2023.

COLLISIONS

As well as 27 gardaí being assaulted in Clare-Tipperary, 11 gardaí from the division were also injured in road tra c collisions while on duty. e division accounted for more than one in seven of a total of 70 gardaí nationwide injured in crashes last year.

e third most common source of injury for gardaí in 2024 a er assaults and road tra c collisions was slips, trips and falls, which resulted in injuries to 66 members.

A further 43 gardaí reported being injured due to what was classi ed as “body movement”, while 31 o cers were injured by coming into contact with something pointed, sharp or rough. Separately, another 11 gardaí su ered a needle stick or stab injury, or exposure to blood or other type of body uid.

A total of ten gardaí were recorded as being injured by an animal last year, while two gardaí in Wicklow reported being injured from smoke inhalation. ere was a single case of a garda, who was based in the Dublin North division, su ering from psychological shock and/ or trauma.

In addition to the 23 Garda divisions, the gures also show a total of 35 gardaí attached to specialist units last year were injured in the line of duty, with a h of such cases due to road tra c collisions.

IMMIGRATION PROCESS NOW CIVILIANISED

Reform Frees Up Garda Resources

In one of her last o cial acts as Justice Minister before taking on the role of Minister for Education and Youth, Helen McEntee announced in January the full civilianisation of administrative immigration functions.

e nationwide transfer of these functions away from An Garda Síochána and to the Immigration Service Delivery (ISD) of the Department of Justice aims to free up gardaí to return to frontline duties.

From 13 January, all rst-time registrations have now been handled in person at the Burgh Quay Registration O ce in Dublin, while all applications for renewals of immigration permissions will continue to be handled using a new online portal.

COMMITMENT

Speaking about the move, which is part of the new Government’s aim to reform the Justice Department, Ms McEntee said: “It gives me great pleasure to announce the full civilianisation of administrative immigration functions from An Garda Síochána to Immigration Service Delivery of my department, as committed to in the Programme for Government to implement the recommendation made by the Commission on the Future of Policing in Ireland.

“Prior to the transfer of immigration functions from An Garda Síochána, over 100 Gardaí were assigned to immigration duties, and today’s announcement has further released valuable Garda operational resources. e entire civilianisation process has enabled Gardaí to focus more on enforcement and operational matters, such as deportations and investigations.”

RECORD

Last year was a record year for both rst-time immigration registrations and renewals of immigration permissions. In total, more than 310,000 applications were processed, with 95,000 rst-time registrations and 215,000 renewals.

Welcoming this milestone, the Minister went on to say: “I am committed to driving reform within Immigration Service Delivery of my department to provide a more e cient and modern service for our customers. With the introduction of the Digital Contact

Centre, customers can communicate with Immigration Service Delivery in a more customer-friendly and e cient manner.”

While rst-time registration applicants are now required to register their immigration residence permission at the Registration O ce in Dublin, applicants resident outside of Cork, Dublin, Kildare, Meath and Wicklow who already had a con rmed appointment up to 31 January could still attend their relevant Garda registration o ce as scheduled.

“The entire civilianisation process has enabled Gardaí to focus more on enforcement and operational matters, such as deportations and investigations”

Then-Justice Minister Helen McEntee

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BOTH SIDES OF THE BORDER

The Garda Síochána/PSNI Cross Border Policing Strategy 2025-2027 Has Been Launched

Across-border initiative between An Garda Síochána and the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) launched in December will run from 2025 to 2027, and will see both organisations working together to “do more to tackle criminal networks who seek to exploit the border region”.

e three-year strategy aims to build on established collaborative relationships and operational successes to date under previous cross-border strategies, and focuses on four main areas.

FOCUS

e rst focus area is Tackling Crime and Preventing Harm, which aims to see proactive collaboration in the prevention and detection of crime that will place victims and the vulnerable at the forefront of robust policing responses.

e strategy states that this will be achieved through optimal use of resources, the delivery of sustainable solutions to shared problems, strengthened messaging and public awareness, enhanced information sharing mechanisms, greater partnerships centred on shared knowledge and learnings, and focused intelligence-led policing approaches.

e second is Roads Policing and Road Safety, which will see a shared commitments to making roads safer delivered through robust roads policing

enforcement and enhanced road safety initiatives in collaboration with key partner agencies and communities. is will involve increased police visibility and the detection of o ences, optimised use of all available technology such as ANPR and Mobility Devices, enhanced road safety messaging and awareness, and disrupting the use of Ireland’s road network by criminal elements.

COMMUNITY

e third focus is on Community Policing, where problem-oriented policing will be fostered and strengthened through solution-based initiatives and focused partnerships with key stakeholders in our communities to meet a shared vision of keeping people safe. is is aimed at enhancing trust within communities and increasing public con dence in An Garda Síochána and PSNI, delivering preventative and sustainable solutions to identi ed community problems and concerns, and creating a positive community impact and reduced fear of crime through high visibility presence and accessibility.

e nal focus is on Major Emergency Management, with enhanced major emergency collaborative frameworks in place to support resilience in preparatory, mitigation, response and recovery mechanisms, ensuring minimal harm in the event of a crisis.

is, the strategy outlines, will be achieved through a strengthened pooling of expertise, knowledge and resources, a holistic approach to addressing prevention, planning, and long-term resilience, increased community engagement and information sharing, optimising the use of resources to ensure e cient use of personnel, equipment, and funding, and agility in command and control systems.

COOPERATION

Garda Commissioner Drew Harris said the strategy would build on the relationship the forces have already established.

“It also represents a strengthened commitment towards enhanced law enforcement provision and intelligencesharing between both our organisations in the midst of evolving threats and challenges derived from a rapidly changing geo-political and criminal landscape,” added Mr Harris.

en-Justice Minister Helen McEntee said: “We commend the exceptional teamwork and unwavering commitment that exists, and the determination of both police services to use all the tools available to ensure that those who would seek to exploit the border for criminal ends will not succeed. Much of the work of our respective police services remains unseen but is highly important in keeping our communities safe.”

Garda Commissioner Drew Harris and PSNI Chief Constable Jon Boutcher at the launch of the strategy

HOMICIDES AND DRUG OFFENCES DOWN BUT THEFT AND BURGLARY ON THE RISE

The

CSO’s

Latest Crime Stats Show Changing Trends

Incidents

The number of recorded homicides fell by 12% in the last year but crimes in other categories saw signi cant increases in the same period of time, according to the Central Statistics O ce’s most recent gures for the third quarter (Q3) of 2024.

e Recorded Crime Q3 2024 release was due to be published in December 2024 but was postponed to allow the CSO engage with An Garda Síochána regarding a reported backlog in the recording of potential fraud related crime incidents reported by nancial Institutions under Section 19 of the Criminal Justice Act, 2011 on the PULSE system.

DECREASES

ere were 75 incidents of Homicide and Related O ences in the year to Q3 2024, which represented a decrease of 12% or ten fewer when compared to the same period in 2023. Almost all of this decrease was accounted for by a fall in incidents of Dangerous Driving Leading to Death (11 fewer incidents or a 24% decrease).

Decreases were also noted in the number of crime incidents involving Controlled Drug o ences, which were down by 6%. e largest rate of decrease was for the Southern region (-11%), followed by the Eastern region (-9%).

e rate of decrease was 3% for both the DMR and North Western regions.

A fall of 779 or 7% in the number of incidents of Possession of Drugs for Personal Use o ences coupled with a fall of 424 or 8% in incidents involving Possession of Drugs for Sale or Supply o ences accounted for most of the fall of 1,129 or 6% in the number of incidents of Controlled Drug o ences.

An analysis of crime trends shows that recorded crime incidents involving Controlled Drug o ences in the year to Q3 2024 were at their lowest over the ve-year period between 2020 and 2024. is was the same for incidents involving

THEFT & RELATED OFFENCES

WEAPONS & EXPLOSIVES OFFENCES

Dangerous or Negligent Acts, which includes dangerous driving leading to serious injury, and driving while under the in uence of alcohol or drugs. In 2020, there were 8,861 recorded crime incidents of this type and this fell to 8,123 incidents in 2021 before rising to 8,562 in 2022. e number of incidents fell to 7,548 in 2023 and was 7,541 in the year to Q3 2024.

ere were also notable decreases in the categories of O ences against Government, Justice Procedures & Organisation of Crime (-7%). A fall of 740 or 5% in the number of recorded incidents of O ences While in Custody and Breach of Court Orders accounted for much of the fall of 1,108 incidents of O ences against Government, Justice Procedures & Organisation of Crime.

Robbery, Extortion & Hijacking o ences (-2%) and Sexual o ences (-1%) also saw a decrease.

INCREASES

While Controlled Drug O ences and Dangerous or Negligent Acts were at their lowest over a ve-year period from 2020 to 2024, crimes involving e and Attempts/ reats to Murder, Assaults, Harassments and Related O ences were at their highest.

Both e and Burglary and Related O ences saw increases over the period to the end of Q3 2024. Recorded incidents of Burglary rose by 19% or 878 individual incidents in Q3 2024, reaching 9,981 for the year to that date, while there was a 7% rise in the number of incidents of e that saw a total of 5,331 in this period and 77,260 for the year to date. Six out of every ten incidents were due to the from shops. ere was also an increase in incidents involving e from Person, rising by 680 incidents or 20% to 4,077 incidents over the year. e largest rate of increase for Burglary was seen in the Southern region at 23%, followed by the Eastern region (up 9%), while the Dublin Metropolitan Region (DMR) had the lowest rate of increase at 5%. Regarding e s, the Eastern region saw an 11% increase, the Southern region saw a 9% rise, DMR saw an increase of

7% and the North Western region saw a 2% rise.

Attempts/ reats to Murder, Assaults, Harassments & Related O ences rose by 3% in Q3 2024 when compared to Q3 2023. In the year to Q3 2024, there were 24,174 recorded crime incidents in this category. While this was slightly higher than the 23,880 and 23,461 incidents recorded in 2023 and 2022 respectively, it exceeded the levels in 2020 and 2021 by more than 4,000 incidents.

e overall number of persons recorded as victims in this category went up by 3% to 6,082 victims between Q3 2023 and Q3 2024. Nearly six in ten (59%) victims were male in Q3 2024 compared with just over four in ten (41%) female victims. e number of male victims rose by 3% to 3,592 and the number of female victims was up by 1% to 2,490.

When one looks at the age pro le of male victims, the results show that the number of victims who were under 18 years fell by 48 or 10%, as did those aged between 30 and 44 years (down by 33 victims or 3%). e number of victims in all other age groups rose with the largest being for those aged 60 years or more (+13%). ere were increases of between 10% and 11% for all other age groups.

A somewhat di erent picture emerged for female victims where most of the overall increase of 1% in the number of victims was accounted for by an increase of 7% or 44 victims in the 18-29 age group. e number of victims aged 60 years or more went up by 3% while those under 18 years and 45-59 years fell by 1%.

ere were also increases in the number of crime incidents relating to Kidnapping & Related O ences, which saw a 16% rise, and Public Order & Other Social Code O ences (up 3%).

Weapons & Explosives O ences rose overall by 11%, with DMR seeing a 16% increase, the Southern region a 13% increase, and the other two regions seeing a rise of 4% and 5%.

LATEST ADDITIONS TO GARDA NUMBERS

The Last of Four Attestations in 2024 Took Place in December

Afurther 169 gardaí were attested at a ceremony in the Garda College in Templemore in December, bringing the total strength of the organisation above 14,000.

For the rst time since March 2020, a Taoiseach attended the passing out ceremony, with then-Taoiseach and now Tánaiste Simon Harris accompanying then-Justice Minister Helen McEntee at the event as one of the last acts of

the outgoing 34th Government before the current 35th version took o ce in January.

DEMOGRAPHICS

Having completed their training, the new gardaí will be assigned to Garda divisions across the country. Of the 169 new probationers, 96 have been assigned to the Dublin Metropolitan Region, 31 to the Eastern Region, 18 to the Southern Region, and 24 to the North West Region.

Of those attested, 50 are women, representing 30% of the total class number, 14 were born outside the State and hail from countries such as Estonia, New Zealand, Brazil, Hungary, Poland, Serbia, England, Latvia, Spain, Croatia and Romania. Four are former Garda Reserve members.

SPECIAL DAY

en-Taoiseach Harris said at the ceremony: “ is is a very special day

The new gardaí throw their hats in the air in celebration

ABOVE: Of the 169 new members, 50 are female. BELOW: A newly-attested garda is congratulated by Commissioner Drew Harris

There were 169 new additions to Garda forces

for each newly-attested garda and their families. It is a celebration of the hard work and commitment that has taken them to this point. It is also a great day for our country. Days like today are a reminder to the public that more and more gardaí are coming through Templemore and into every community around the country.

We recognise the importance of a highly visible policing service and robust resourcing is at the heart of that”

“We recognise the importance of a highly visible policing service and robust resourcing is at the heart of that. e government will continue to ensure the men and women of An Garda Síochána have the legislation, technology and supports to perform your vital mission of keeping people safe.”

SUPPORT

en-Justice Minister McEntee added: “For over 100 years, the people of Ireland have looked to gardaí to keep them safe, to make them feel secure and to support them in their most di cult moments. Gardaí are serving the most vulnerable among us every day and combatting the criminals who seek to divide and destroy. I am very proud of the community gardaí, the crime prevention o cers, those on the frontline who have to break the

worst news to families with empathy and compassion, all those who do the hard yards in serving our people all around the country and it’s great to see so many new gardaí joining the ranks today.

“We will take every necessary action to boost Garda recruitment. I have increased the maximum age entry from 35 to 50, doubled the Garda training allowance and increased the mandatory retirement age from 60 to 62. I have also ensured that new regulations were in place to allow for a new Garda Reserve competition, with 1,800 people applying to join. Nothing is o the table when it comes to supporting Garda recruitment.”

Also speaking at the event, Garda Commissioner Drew Harris said: “I want to thank each and every one of you for choosing a career in An Garda Síochána. For choosing to serve the people of Ireland. To put them rst. To put them at the heart of your professional career. Because that is what Gardaí do.

“An Garda Síochána will succeed not by force of arms or numbers, but on their moral authority as servants of the people. at ethos stands as rm today as when those words were rst uttered. It is our responsibility as serving Gardaí – including you – to maintain this high level of service and ensure this great legacy continues.”

Garda Commissioner Harris nished by acknowledging the job of a member of An Garda Síochána: “It is a heavy burden, but you do not carry it alone. You are supported. You are part of a team. You are part of a community. And I know you can deliver, because this is the job of a Garda. And it’s a job worth doing.”

e event was the fourth such attestation to take place in 2024, following ceremonies in March, June and September. A further intake of trainees entered the Garda College in mid-December.

e unprecedented allocation of more than €2.48 billion to An Garda Síochána in Budget 2025 – a 27% increase since 2020is indicative of Government’s commitment to ensuring An Garda Síochána has provision for the equipment, technology, facilities, eet and personnel it needs to carry out vital policing work, and will allow for the sustained recruitment of new Garda recruits through to next year.

ABOVE: Marching across the Templemore yard. BELOW: It was a special day for the new gardaí and their families

NEW GOVERNMENT JUSTICE REFORM

Programme for Government Introduces Sweeping Changes

The draft programme for Government published in January saw commitments to make a number of significant reforms to an expanded Department of Justice, Home Affairs and Migration.

e move to bring Home A airs and Migration into the Justice remit and the full civilianisation of the immigration application process is detailed elsewhere in this issue, and the Justice department will now have responsibility for internationalprotection accommodation and integration in what is part of what is described as a “fair but rmer” migration system.

Called “Securing Ireland’s Future”, this dra programme details that there are plans for a dedicated division of the High Court to handle all immigration cases, as well as increased sta ng “at every stage” of the international-protection system. It pledges to “prioritise investment across the justice system”, including in An Garda Síochána, the courts, the Director of Public Prosecutions, prisons and the Probation Service.

COURTS

As well as restoring criminal legal aid fees for solicitors and barristers, Government says it plans to appoint 20 more judges this year, with further increases “to meet growing demands and timely access to justice”.

e Minister for Justice will also be granted new powers to ask the Judicial Council to draw up sentencing guidelines for a particular crime area within a certain timeframe.

A review of the Courts Service and the Legal Services Regulatory Authority will also be carried out this year, with relevant legislative changes brought in “to ensure

the courts and legal system are digital, modern, cost-e ective, and focused on the needs of victims”.

e programme for Government also states that an independent oversight of professional legal education will be introduced, and will support the development of a national apprenticeship programme for solicitor training which will “remove the barriers to becoming a solicitor or barrister”.

Plans are also in place to establish a regional o ce for the DPP, as well as a permanent on-site build in Dublin, with increased court capacity at night and at o -site temporary courts considered.

GARDAÍ

In terms of Garda numbers, the programme states that Government will provide funding to recruit at least 5,000 new recruits and additional garda sta over the next ve years, and will commit to increasing garda visibility on public transport that will include the introduction of garda transport hubs based at major bus and train stations.

On a controversial and potentially problematic note, the programme also states that facial recognition technology will be deployed for serious crimes and missing persons, “with strict safeguards”, and will enact legislation to combat anti-social behaviour, with grater use of anti-social behaviour warnings (ASBWs) and orders (ASBOs).

COMMITMENTS

A health-led approach to drug addiction has also been laid out in the programme, aiming to divert those found in possession of drugs for personal use to health services rather than the courts and prison.

On the subject of prisons, the Government says it will commit to enacting the Inspection of Places of Detention Bill to enable rati cation of the UN Optional Protocol to UN Convention on Torture. ere are also commitments to update the licensing laws, a Night Time Economy Bill, and a restoration of the Defamation Bill.

In terms of Garda numbers, the programme states that Government will provide funding to recruit at least 5,000 new recruits

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THE

Author: Bob Mortimer

Publisher: Gallery Books

Price: €17.99

As he continues to delight TV viewers with his onscreen partnership with Paul Whitehouse in Gone Fishing, Bob Mortimer has also almost e ortlessly solidi ed his position as an author of very enjoyable cosy crime ction.

Following the success of his debut novel e Satsuma Complex, he picks up where he le o with the story of solicitor Gary and his now-girlfriend Emily in the months a er they exposed a case of police corruption. As they await the trial in which they both may have to act as key witnesses, Emily has moved to Brighton to renovate and take over the running of her now deceased father’s hotel, e Avocado, while cautious Gary remains in London, unsure whether to take the plunge, leave his comfortable but humdrum life in Peckham, and move in with his eminently patient girlfriend.

A visit to his o ce by an unnervingly shady character named Clive Sequence quickly turns events on their head as its revealed he and his sidekick are working for the corrupt policemen who face serious jail time, and will stop at nothing to prevent Gary and Emily from testifying in the trial.

With his phone tapped, the hesitant Gary has to gure out how to escape the ever-present gaze of the menacing Sequence, his lack of knowledge of a shady underworld constantly getting him into more and more dangerous territory. Caught between a rock and a hard place, he has to bite the bullet and decide whether to take the easy options – regarding the trial, his commitment to Emily, his job – or do the right thing in each case and in the process risk his life and the lives of his friends.

Although the plot is not as intriguing as his rst novel (which you should read before starting this one), Mortimer’s success lies not in the strength of his stories but in the way he tells them, instantly jumping from dramatic scenes to humorous and sometimes bizarre ights of fancy and irrelevant musings on things such as the merits of Battenberg cake and having your face pushed into raw mincemeat.

It’s clear from this sequel that the author is thoroughly enjoying the platform provided by his debut’s success, with a lot more freedom to write the type of story he wants to deliver in his own way, and fans of his Athletico Mince podcast will be delighted to see him subtly introduce hints of some of his best characters from that side project.

e same side characters that brought weight and drama to e Satsuma Complex through their sub-plots all make an appearance here, but Mortimer also introduces some new and enjoyable faces that will only add to the cast of what will almost certainly be a third novel, and a TV adaptation.

It won’t be the most complex crime novel you come across this year, but this is a very enjoyable, fun read that will keep you entertained on every page.

UNBEATABLE: DUBLIN’S INCREDIBLE SIX IN A ROW

As reigning All-Ireland champions with back-to-back league titles and four consecutive Leinster championships under their belt, Dublin’s GAA team was flying as they began the All-Ireland semifinal against Donegal in August 2014. Nobody expected them to lose, but the Ulstermen ambushed them to come out victorious. Rather than heralding the end of an era, it was the start of seven glorious years for the Dubs, with manager Jim Gavin improving the squad year on year to deliver six All-Ireland titles in a row, remaining undefeated in the championship for 2,540 days. In this very interesting read, sports journalist Eric Haughan examines this era of dominance, speaking to players and backroom sta , and reviewing crucial matches to piece together what it was that made this team so successful for so long. As a club player and coach, the author’s love for the game is evident throughout this work that is packed with great insights into what drives a winning team to continue to overcome their rivals. A great read for any Dubs fan.

OBSESSED: THE AUTOBIOGRAPHY

AUTHOR: JOHNNY SEXTON PUBLISHER: SANDYCOVE

€24.99

AUTHOR: ERIC HAUGHAN PUBLISHER: O’BRIEN PRESS PRICE: €19.99

The bookshelves are full of autobiographies of recently retired Irish rugby players, but this latest from Johnny Sexton, written with journalist Peter O’Reilly, truly stands out as one of the best of its kind. Arguably Ireland’s best ever player, Sexton has often been portrayed as a prickly character who was never afraid to speak his mind to fellow players, coaches and referees, and true to form, he pulls no punches here in his assessment of key moments in his sporting and personal life. As well as great insights into the game, there are many enjoyable anecdotes from his playing career that he recalls, including every compliment and perceived slight, with the same precise detail he shows in remembering every match he ever played in. What makes this fascinating is Sexton’s account of his extraordinary determination to succeed in the face of numerous doubters who thought his chance had passed when at 23 he still hadn’t broken into the Leinster team. The same intense focus and honesty that underlined a glowing career in which he held nothing back is seen throughout this excellent book.

THE STORY OF TAYTO: THE ORIGINAL IRISH CRISP

Although Tayto brought out an ‘autobiography’ of Mr Tayto in 2009 called The Man Inside the Jacket, the company has taken the opportunity to celebrate its 70th anniversary with this clever and funny new title by popular historian Bobby Aherne. Charting the rise of Ireland’s most famous crisp manufacturer from its humble beginnings when Joe ‘Spud’ Murphy opened a small factory near the Moore Street market, to establishing itself as an iconic brand, it gives an entertaining look at the crisp’s evolution in a changing Ireland. Detailing the invention of the cheese and onion flavour and hand-packed paper bags in 1954, to Mr Tayto’s election campaign, the search for Mrs Tayto and the establishment of Tayto Park, it is more than just the story of the crisp, but an irreverent and nostalgic look at our relationship with it, accompanied by brilliant illustrations and images from the archives. Importantly, for every book sold, Tayto will donate €1 to Alone.

AUTHOR: BOBBY AHERNE PUBLISHER:

WILDFIRE HELMET

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WIRELESS SITE ALARM

Fire safety supplier CheckFire has launched their Commander Wireless Site Alarm following the successful release of their original push-button Single Site Alarm last year. e new wireless model o ers enhanced connectivity, allowing up to 20 units to be linked within a 100-metre range in open air and without obstructions. e alarm features a 105dB siren and ashing LED strobe, ensuring alerts are heard and seen even in the noisiest and most challenging environments, and is manufactured from robust ABS plastic, making it both tough and water-resistant. Toria Jones of CheckFire says: “ is innovation not only enhances connectivity and coverage but also reinforces our commitment to protecting people and property across diverse industries. It’s a robust, reliable solution tailored to meet evolving needs.”

NEW SCBA KIT

Emergency equipment specialist Dräger has released the PSS AirBoss, their next generation self-contained breathing apparatus, complete with a Type 4 nano cylinder. e company says their kit combines best-in-class ergonomics and an ultra-light design for optimal re ghter comfort, enabling users to breathe more easily and for longer. Features include height adjustment, a pivoting and sliding waist belt, and an easily adjustable harness, while the durable frame design o ers a low weight and pro le that maintains optimum centre of gravity. e PSS AirBoss also o ers di erent routing options for the LDV, gauge and rescue hoses while the easy to connect reducer handwheel simpli es cylinder removal and tting. e kit is equipped with a data logger that automatically logs alerts, air pressure and battery status and has a Bluetooth interface connectivity. e AirBoss is available in three con gurations: Active, with a mechanical gauge; Agile, with an integrated PASS device for increased safety; and Connect, with advanced sensors.

BREATHING MACHINE TEST

ATOR Labs in the US has launched OMNIcheck, the world’s first breathing machine compliant with NFPA 1981, NFPA 1852 and ISO 16900 standards, which they hope will transform testing protocols for fire departments and training facilities worldwide through its annual SCBA flow tests. With an intuitive so tware interface, the OMNIcheck allows users to e ciently re-certify life support equipment while adhering to OSHA 1910.134 record-keeping requirements. In the US, it is already providing NFPA 1852-compliant flow testing, comparing life support equipment performance against established standards to support robust respiratory protection programs. Internationally, users across Europe, Africa, and Australia can input local testing requirements for any SCBA model into OMNIcheck’s versatile so tware, with all data and test reports easily accessible from a native database.

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DISTRICT COURT SITTINGS

While every e ort has been made to verify the information in this section, please refer to www.courts.ie for o cial Courts Service updates.

DISTRICT COURT

The District Court consists of a President and 64 ordinary judges. The country is divided into 23 districts with one or more judges permanently assigned to each district and the Dublin Metropolitan District.

Generally the venue at which a case is heard depends on where an o ence was committed or where the defendant resides or carries on business or was arrested. Each District Court o ce (with the exception of the Dublin Metropolitan District Court) deals with all elements of the work of the District Court. The District Court is a court of local and summary jurisdiction. The business of the District Court can be divided into four categories: criminal, civil, family law and licensing.

The District Court has a limited appellate jurisdiction in respect of decisions made by statutory bodies and in these appeals, the decision of the District Court is final except where a point of law is at issue. In such instances an appeal can be taken to the High Court.

The District Court also deals with miscellaneous actions such as actions taken under the Control of Dogs Acts, applications for citizenship, applications to amend birth and marriage certificates and applications under the Environmental Protection Act, 1992 for orders in connection with noise reduction.

CIVIL BUSINESS

The civil jurisdiction of the District Court in contract and most other matters is where the claim or award does not exceed €15,000.

CRIMINAL BUSINESS

The District Court exercising its criminal jurisdiction deals with four particular types of o ences:

• Summary o ences: These are o ences for which there is no right of trial by judge and jury. This makes up the bulk of the criminal work of the District Court; these o ences are exclusively statutory in origin.

• Indictable o ences tried summarily: With the consent of the accused and the DPP, and the judge being of the opinion that the facts constitute a minor o ence.

• Indictable o ences: Other than certain o ences including rape, aggravated sexual assault, murder, treason and piracy where the accused pleads guilty and the DPP consents, and the judge accepts the guilty plea. Otherwise, the accused is sent forward to the Circuit Court on their signed plea of guilty for sentencing.

• Indictable o ences not tried summarily: With regard to these o ences, a book of evidence is served on the accused. The judge considers the book of evidence and any submissions on behalf of the defence or the prosecution. If the judge is of the opinion that there is a su cient case to answer, the accused is sent forward to the Circuit Court or Central Criminal Court for trial.

FAMILY LAW

The District Court has a wide jurisdiction in the family law area. Proceedings are not heard in open court and are as informal as is practicable.

• Domestic violence: Under the Domestic Violence Act, 1996, there are two main types of remedies – Safety Orders and Barring Orders.

• Guardianship of children: Under the Guardianship of Infants Act, 1964 as amended by the Status of Children’s Act, 1987, the District Court can make custody and access orders and appoint guardians. It also has jurisdiction to establish paternity in relation to any child, with regard to an application for custody, access or maintenance.

• Maintenance: Under the Maintenance of Spouses and Children Act, 1976 (as amended) the District Court can award maintenance to a spouse and child(ren). The maximum that can be awarded to a spouse is e500 per week and, for a child, e150 per week. To enforce the order the court can direct that all payments be paid through the District Court o ce, make attachment of earnings or issue a warrant for the arrest of the defaulting debtor.

• Child care: Under the Child Care Act, 1991, health boards can make a number of applications to court for orders.

LICENSING

The District Court also has wide powers in relation to liquor and lottery licensing.

JUDGES OF THE DISTRICT COURT

DUBLIN METROPOLITAN JUDGES

His Honour Judge Paul Kelly, President of the District Court

Judge Bryan Smyth

Judge Anne Watkin

Judge Anthony J. Halpin

Judge David McHugh

Judge Dermot Dempsey

Judge Brendan Toale

Judge Patricia McNamara

Judge Gráinne Malone

Judge Marie Quirke

Judge Michael Walsh

Judge Paula Murphy

Judge Gerard Jones

Judge John Hughes

Judge Treasa Kelly

Judge John Campbell

Judge Máire Conneely

Judge Conor Fottrell

Judge Michèle Finan

Judge Michele Finan

PROVINCIAL JUDGES OF THE DISTRICT COURT

(including the district number)

1. Judge Éiteáin Cunningham

2. Judge Sandra Murphy

3. Judge Fiona Lydon

4. Judge James Faughnan

5. Judge Raymond Finnegan

6. Judge Nicole Jane Andrews

7. Judge Mary Fahy

8. Judge Maria Keane

9. Judge Bernadette Owens

10. Judge Eirinn McKiernan

12. Judge Alec Gabbett

13. Judge Carol Anne Coolican

13. Judge Patricia Harney

15. Judge Andrew Cody

16. Judge David Kennedy

17. Judge David Waters

18. Vacancy

19. Judge Philip O’Leary

19. Judge Mary Dorgan

19. Judge Joanne Carroll

20. Judge Colm Roberts

21. Judge Brian O’Shea

22. Judge Geraldine Carthy

23. Judge John Cheatle

24. Judge Kevin Staunton

25. Judge Desmond Zaidan

MOVEABLE JUDGES OF THE DISTRICT COURT

Judge Gerard Furlong

Judge John Lindsay

Judge Alan Mitchell

Judge Deirdre Gearty

Judge Peter White

Judge John King

Judge Miriam A. Walsh

Judge John F. Brennan

Judge Mary Cashin

Judge John O’Leary

Judge Cephas Power

Judge Brendan O’Reilly

Judge Patricia Cronin

Judge Vincent Deane

Judge Ciaran Liddy

Judge Susan Fay

Judge Shalom Binchy

Judge Catherine Ghent

Judge Monika Leech

Judge Stephanie Coggans

Judge Fiona Brennan

Judge William Aylmer

Judge Philip O’Leary

Judge Adrian Harris

Judge Michael Ramsey

Judge Michael Connellan

Judge Catherine Hayden

Judge Mark O’Connell

Judge Áine Clancy

PROVINCIAL DISTRICTS NO. 1-25

DISTRICT 1: COUNTY DONEGAL

Letterkenny (074) 911 1300 Second Thursday in each month at 10.30am & Fourth Tuesday in each month at 10.30am

Second Thursday in each month at 10.30am & Fourth Tuesday in each month at 10.30am

(074) 911 1300 Third Tuesday in each month at 10.30am Third Tuesday in each month at 10.30am AN CLOCHÁN LIATH Donegal (074) 972 1532

Second Tuesday in each month at 10.30am

Second Tuesday in each month at 10.30am AN FÁL CARRACH Letterkenny (074) 911 1300 Third Wednesday in each month at 10.30am

Third Wednesday in each month at 10.30am

DISTRICT COURT AREA AND VENUE

NA.GLEANNTA Donegal (074) 972 1532

LETTERKENNY Letterkenny (074) 911 1300

SUMMARY JURISDICTION

DISTRICT 2: COUNTIES DONEGAL, LEITRIM AND SLIGO

BALLYSHANNON Donegal (074) 972 1532

CARRICK-ONSHANNO Carrick-onShannon (071) 962 0002

DONEGAL Donegal (074) 972 1532

Fourth Wednesday in each month at 10.30am

First, Second, Third and Fourth Monday in each month. First Tuesday in each month. First and Second Wednesday in each month. First, Third and Fourth Thursday in each month. All sitting at 10.30am

CIVIL JURISDICTION

SCHEDULED SITTING DAYS AND COMMENCEMENT TIMES OF COURTS

MANOR-HAMILTON Sligo (071) 914 2228

SLIGO Sligo (071) 914 2228

TUBBERCURRY Sligo (071) 914 2228

DISTRICT 3: COUNTY MAYO

ACAILL Castlebar (096) 72940

BALLINA Ballina (096) 72940

BÉAL AN MHUIRTHEAD Ballina (096) 72940

First and third Friday in each month at 10.30am

Third & fourth Tuesday in each month at 10.30am & Fourth Friday in each month at 10.30am

Second and fourth Monday in each month at 10.30am & First Wednesday in each month at 10.30am

Second Wednesday in each month at 10.30am

First, second, third, fourth and fi th Thursday in each month at 10.30am

Fourth Wednesday in each month at 10.30am

Fourth Wednesday in each month at 10.30am

First Wednesday in each month at 10.30am (civil only) & Second Wednesday in each month at 10.30am (family only)

Second Thursday in January, March, May, July, September and November at 10.30 am

Second and fourth Tuesday in each month at 10.30am & First and second Friday in each month at 10.30am

Second Wednesday in each month at 10.30am

First and third Friday in each month at 10.30am

First Monday in each month at 10.30am & Third and fourth Tuesday in each month at 10.30am

Second and fourth Monday in each month at 10.30am & First Wednesday in each month at 10.30am

Second Wednesday in each month at 10.30am

First Tuesday in each month at 10.30am (civil) & Third Wednesday in each month at 10.30am (family)

Fourth Wednesday in each month at 10.30am

Civil jurisdiction - sitting at Castlebar

Second Monday & Fourth Wednesday in each month at 10.30am

Second Wednesday in each month at 10.30am

CASTLEBAR

Castlebar (094) 904 3800

DISTRICT 4: COUNTIES GALWAY AND ROSCOMMON

BALLAGHADERREEN

BALLINASLOE

Roscommon (090) 662 6174

Loughrea (091) 841 463

First and third Tuesday in each month & First and third Wednesday in each month & First, third and fourth Thursday in each month & Second Thursday in February, April, June, October and December & Third and fourth Friday in each month. All sittings at 10.30 a.m.

SCHEDULED SITTING DAYS AND COMMENCEMENT TIMES OF COURTS

First and third Tuesday in each month & First and third Wednesday in each month & First, third and fourth Thursday in each month & Second Thursday in February, April, June, October and December & Third and fourth Friday in each month. All sittings at 10.30 a.m.

Second Friday in each month at 12.00pm

First and fourth Thursday in each month at 10.30am

CASTLEREA

Roscommon (090) 662 6174

LOUGHREA Loughrea (091) 841463

ROSCOMMON Roscommon (090) 662 6174

STROKESTOWN Roscommon (090) 662 6174

TUAM Galway (091 511500)

DISTRICT 5: COUNTIES CAVAN AND MONAGHAN

CAVAN Cavan (049) 433 1530 / (049) 433 1585

Castlerea: First and third Friday in each month at 11.30am

Harristown: First, second, third and fourth Friday in each month at 10.30am

First and second Wednesday in each month at 10.30am & Third Thursday in each month at 10.30am

First and third Tuesday in each month at 10.30am

Fourth Wednesday in each month at 10.30am

Second and fourth Tuesday in each month at 10.30am.

First and fourth Tuesday in each month at 10.30am & First, second, third and fourth Thursday in each month at 10.30am & Second and third Friday of each month at 10.30am

Second Friday in each month at 12.00pm

First and fourth Thursday in each month at 10.30am (Licensing) & Second Thursday in each month at 10.30am (civil and family) & Second Thursday each month at 10.30am (Enforcement and Sub Service)

Castlerea: Fourth Friday in each month at 11.30am

Third Thursday in each month at 10.30am

First and third Tuesday in each month at 10.30am

Fourth Wednesday in each month at 10.30am

Third Wednesday in each month at 10.30am - civil and family.

First Friday in each month at 10.30am (Civil/State Summonses) & Second Tuesday in each month at 10.30am (Family)

DISTRICT COURT AREA AND VENUE DISTRICT

MONAGHAN Monaghan (047) 62300

DISTRICT 6: COUNTY LOUTH

DROGHEDA Dundalk (042) 939 2300

SUMMARY JURISDICTION

SCHEDULED

DUNDALK Dundalk (042) 939 2300

First, second, third and fourth Monday in each month at 10.30am & First, second and third Wednesday of each month at 10.30am

CIVIL JURISDICTION

SCHEDULED SITTING DAYS AND COMMENCEMENT TIMES OF COURTS

Fourth Wednesday in each month at 10.30am (Civil/State Summonses/Licensing) & Third Tuesday in each month at 10.30am (Family Law)

ARDEE Dundalk (042) 939 2300

DISTRICT 7: COUNTY GALWAY

CILL RÓNÁIN Galway (091) 511500

First, second, third and fourth Monday in each month at 10am. Applications can be made on the third or fourth Tuesday in the month. No Court sitting in Drogheda during August.

First, second, third and fourth Wednesday in each month at 10am. Applications can be made on the first or second Tuesday in the month. Only one scheduled Court sitting in each week during August.

Second Friday in each month at 10.00am.

No Court sittings in Ardee during August.

First Thursday in March, June, September and December at 12.00pm

CLIFDEN Galway (091) 511500 Fourth Thursday in each month at 11.00am

DOIRE AN FHÉICH Galway (091) 511500

Third Tuesday in each month at 10.30am & Second Thursday in January, March, May, July and November at 10.30am

First and second Tuesday in each month (Family), Third Tuesday in each month (civil/ local authorities/applications) & Fourth Tuesday in each month (Applications/Laytown/Drogheda) all at 10am

First Tuesday in each month (applications/local authorities/ juveniles) & Second Tuesday in each month (civil/applications) & Third and fourth Thursday in each month (Family) all at 10am

Second Friday in each month at 10.00am. All business (civil, criminal, family, etc.)

First Thursday in March, June, September and December at 12.00pm

Fourth Thursday in each month at 11.00am

Third Tuesday in each month at 10.30am & Second Thursday in January, March May, July, September and November at 10.30am

DISTRICT COURT AREA AND VENUE DISTRICT

GALWAY Galway (091) 511500

SUMMARY JURISDICTION

SCHEDULED

CIVIL JURISDICTION

SCHEDULED SITTING DAYS AND COMMENCEMENT TIMES OF COURTS

First, second, third, fourth and fi th Monday in each month at 10am (Criminal) & First, second, third and fourth Wednesday in each month at 10.30am (Criminal) & First Tuesday in each month at 10:30am (Licensing Matters/Applications) & Second Thursday in February, April, June, September, October and December at 10.30am & Third Thursday at 12.00pm (juvenile)

DISTRICT 8: COUNTY TIPPERARY

NENAGH Nenagh (067) 31319

THURLES Nenagh (067) 31319

Fourth Thursday in each month at 10.30am & First, second and third Friday in each month at 10.30am

Third Thursday in each month at 10.30 a.m. (civil) & second and fourth Tuesday in each month at 10.30 a.m. (family)

TIPPERARY Clonmel (052) 612 9183

DISTRICT 9: COUNTIES LONGFORD AND WESTMEATH

ATHLONE Athlone (090) 649 2271

First and fourth Tuesday in each month at 10.30am & Third Wednesday in each month at 10.30am

First and fourth Wednesday in each month at 10.30am

Fourth Monday in each month at 10.30am (Tusla child & family cases) & First and third Thursday in each month at 10.30am (family) & Second Thursday in each month at 10.30am (civil)

Second Tuesday in each month at 10.30am (family) & Third Tuesday in each month at 10.30am (civil)

Fourth Wednesday in each month at 10.30am (civil) & Second Monday in each month at 10.30am (family)

LONGFORD Longford (043) 334 6410

MULLINGAR Mullingar (044) 934 8315

First Friday in each month at 10.30 a.m. & Third Monday in each month at 10.30 a.m. & First, second, third and fourth Wednesday in each month at 10.30 a.m.

First, second, third and fourth Tuesday in each month at 10.30am.

First, second, third and fourth Thursday of each month (except August) at 10.30 a.m. & Second and fourth Friday in each month (except August) at 10.30 a.m. & Fourth Monday in each month (except August) at 10.30 a.m.

First Friday in each month at 10.30 a.m. & Third Monday in each month at 10.30 a.m. & First, second, third and fourth Wednesday in each month at 10.30 a.m.

Third Friday in each month at 10.30am & Second Monday in each month at 10.30am - family.

First, second, third and fourth Thursday of each month (except August) at 10.30 a.m. & Second & fourth Friday in each month (except August) at 10.30 a.m. & Fourth Monday in each month (except August) at 10.30 a.m.

DISTRICT COURT AREA AND VENUE

DISTRICT COURT OFFICE TELEPHONE

DISTRICT 10: COUNTIES LOUTH AND MEATH

MEATH (SITTING AT TRIM)

Trim (046) 948 1200

DISTRICT 12: COUNTIES CLARE AND GALWAY

ENNIS Ennis (065) 686 7500

SUMMARY JURISDICTION

SCHEDULED SITTING DAYS AND COMMENCEMENT TIMES OF COURTS

First, second, third and fourth Wednesday in each month at 10.30 am & First, second, third and fourth Thursday at 10.30am

CIVIL JURISDICTION

SCHEDULED SITTING DAYS AND COMMENCEMENT TIMES OF COURTS

GORT Galway (091) 511500

First, second, third & fourth Wednesday in each month at 10.30 a.m. & Fourth Tuesday of each month at 10.30a.m. & Second Thursday in February, April, June, October & D ecember at 10.30a.m. First & third Friday in each month at 10.30 a.m. & Second Tuesday in January, March, May, July, October and December at 10.30 a.m.

Fourth Thursday in each month at 10.30am

Second, third and fourth Friday in each month at 10.30am

First and third Thursday in each month at 10.30 a.m. (Family) & Fourth Friday in each month at 10.30 a.m. (Civil) and Second Friday in January, March, May, July, October and December at 10.30 a.m.

Second Thursday in January, March, May, July, September &November at 10.30am (civil and family)

KILLALOE Ennis (065) 686 7500 First Tuesday in each month at 10.30am. First Tuesday in each month at 10.30am.

KILRUSH Ennis (065) 686 7500

DISTRICT 13: COUNTY LIMERICK

LIMERICK SITTING AT KILMALLOCK

LIMERICK SITTING AT LIMERICK CITY

Limerick (061) 414300

Limerick (061) 414300

Second Tuesday in February, April, June, September and November at 10.30am & Third Tuesday in each month at 10.30am.

Second Tuesday in February, April, June, September and November at 10.30am & Third Tuesday in each month at 10.30am.

NEWCASTLE WEST Limerick (061) 414300

Second and third Tuesday in each month at 10.30am & Fourth Friday in each month at 10.30am and juvenile at 12 noon

Every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday in each month at 10.30am & First, second, third and fourth Thursday in each month at 10.30am & First, second, third and fourth Friday in each month at 10.30am Every Tuesday at 2.30 p.m. (juvenile)

First and fourth Tuesday at 10.30am & Third Thursday in each month at 10.30am and juvenile at 12 noon & Second Friday in each month at 10.30am

Third Tuesday in each month at 10.30am & First Thursday in each month at 10.30am (family only)

Each Monday and Wednesday at 10.30 am - family only. Second and fourth Thursday in each month at 10.30 am - civil only. Second Thursday in each month at 10.30 am - civil only.

First Tuesday in each month at 10.30am (civil only) & Second and fourth Thursday in each month at 10:30am (family only)

DISTRICT 15: COUNTIES LAOIS AND OFFALY

PORTLAOISE

Portlaoise (057) 867 4600

SUMMARY JURISDICTION

TULLAMORE

Tullamore (057) 932 1153

DISTRICT 16: COUNTY WICKLOW

ARKLOW Bray (01) 274 4800

BRAY Bray (01) 274 4800

First, second, third and fourth Monday in each month & First, second, third and fourth Tuesday in each month & First, second, third and fourth Thursday in each month & Third Friday in each month. All sittings at 10.30am.

First, second, third and fourth Monday in each month at 10.30am, and first, second, third and fourth Wednesday in each month at 10.30am & Second Friday in each month at 10.30am

CIVIL JURISDICTION

SCHEDULED SITTING DAYS AND

WICKLOW Bray (01) 274 4800

DISTRICT 17: COUNTY KERRY

CAHIRCIVEEN Tralee (066) 717 8700

Second, third and fourth Wednesday in each month at 10.30am

First, second, third and fourth Monday in each month at 10.30am & First Wednesday in each month at 10.30am & Second, third and fourth Thursday in each month at 10.30am

Second, third and fourth Tuesday in each month at 10.30am

First, second, third anf fourth Tuesday of each month at 10.30am (family law only) & Third Friday in each month at 10.30am (civil only)

Second and Fourth Monday in each month at 10.30 am - Family Law only

Second Thursday in each month at 10.30am

AN DAINGEAN Tralee (066) 717 8700 Fourth Friday in each month at 11.00am

Second, third and fourth Wednesday in each month at 10.30am

First, second, third and fourth Monday in each month at 10.30am & First Wednesday in each month at 10.30am & First, second, third and fourth Thursday in each month at 10.30am

Second, third and fourth Tuesday in each month at 10.30am

Second Thursday in each month at 10.30am

Fourth Friday in each month at 11.00am

KENMARE Tralee (066) 717 8700 First Friday in each month at 11.00am First Friday in each month at 11.00am

KILLARNEY Tralee (066) 717 8700 First and third Tuesday in each month at 10.30am (Crime & Road Tra c)

KILLORGLIN Tralee (066) 717 8700

Temporarily Closed - all cases to be heard in Cahirciveen on Second Thursday in each month at 10.30 a.m.

TRALEE Tralee (066) 717 8700 First, second, third and fourth Wednesday in each month at 10.30am (Crime & Road Traffic)

Second Monday in each month at 10.30 am - CFA Family. Second Tuesday in each month - Civil & Family

Temporarily Closed - all cases to be heard in Cahirciveen on Second Thursday in each month at 10.30 a.m.

Fourth Tuesday in each month at 10.30am (civil) & Fourth Thursday in each month at 10.30am (family)

DISTRICT COURT AREA AND VENUE

LISTOWEL Tralee (068) 717 8700

DISTRICT 18: COUNTY CORK

BANDON Clonakilty (023) 883 5759

SUMMARY JURISDICTION

BANTRY Clonakilty (023) 883 5759

CLONAKILTY Clonakilty (023) 883 5759

MACROOM Clonakilty (023) 883 5759

SKIBBEREEN Clonakilty (023) 883 5759

DISTRICT 19: CORK CITY

CORK CITY Chief Clerk, Cork (021) 480 5600

First and third Thursday in each month at 10.30am

First and third Thursday in each month at 10.30am (Kinsale cases) & First and third Friday in each month at 10.30am & Third Monday each month (criminal trials only, adjourned cases)

Second and fourth Thursday in each month at 10.30am

First and third Tuesday in each month at 10.30am

First and third Wednesday in each month at 10.30am

Second and fourth Tuesday in each month at 10.30am

CIVIL JURISDICTION

SCHEDULED SITTING DAYS AND COMMENCEMENT TIMES OF COURTS

Second Friday in each month at 10.30am

Second Friday in each month & Fourth Monday in each month (family and HSE hearings only, adjourned cases) 10.30am (civil) 11.00am (juvenile) 11.30am (family)

Fourth Wednesday in each month at 10.30am (civil) 11.00am (juvenile) 11.30am (family)

Fourth Friday in each month at 10.30am (civil) 11.00am (juvenile) 11.30am (family)

Second Wednesday in each month at 10.30am (civil) 11.00am (juvenile) 11.30am (family)

Second and fourth Tuesday in each month at 10.30am

DISTRICT 20: COUNTY CORK

FERMOY Mallow (022) 21486

Court No. 1: Each weekday at 10.30 a.m.

Court No. 3: Each Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday at 10.30 a.m

Court No.5: Each Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday at 10.30 a.m. (family/child care)

Court No.7: Each Friday at 10.30 a.m. (children)

First, second, third and fourth Friday in each month at 10.30am

Court No 6: Each Friday at 10.30 a.m (civil/licensing)

MALLOW Mallow (022) 21486

First, second, third and fourth Tuesday in each month at 10.30am

Fourth Wednesday in each month at 10.30am (juvenile and family) & First, second, third and fourth Friday in each month at 10.30am

First, second, third and fourth Tuesday in each month at 10.30am & First Wednesday in each month at 10.30am (juvenile and family) & Second Wednesday in each month at 10.30am (childcare and HSE)

DISTRICT COURT AREA AND VENUE

DISTRICT COURT OFFICE TELEPHONE

MIDLETON Cork (021) 480 5600

SUMMARY JURISDICTION

SCHEDULED SITTING DAYS AND COMMENCEMENT TIMES OF COURTS

DISTRICT 21: COUNTIES CORK, TIPPERARY AND WATERFORD

CARRICK-ON-SUIR Clonmel (052) 612 9183

CASHEL Clonmel (052) 612 9183

CLONMEL Clonmel (052) 612 9183

First, second, third and fourth Thursday in each month at 10.30am

CIVIL JURISDICTION

SCHEDULED SITTING DAYS AND COMMENCEMENT TIMES OF COURTS

DUNGARVAN Waterford (024) 92175

LISMORE Dungarvan Dungarvan

YOUGHAL Youghal (024) 92175

DISTRICT 22: COUNTIES CARLOW AND KILKENNY

CARLOW Carlow (059) 915 3100

First and third Wednesday in each month at 10.30am

First and third Thursday in each month at 10.30am

First, third and fourth Tuesday in each month at 10.30am & Fourth Thursday in each month at 10.30am (juvenile)

Second and fourth Monday in each month at 10.30am

First Monday in each month at 10.30am. Lismore District Court sits in Dungarvan Courthouse.

First and third Friday in each month at 10.30am & Second and fourth Wednesday at 10.30am

Third Wednesday in each month at 10.30am (juvenile and family) & First, second, third and fourth Thursday in each month at 10.30am

First and third Wednesday in each month at 10.30am

Second Thursday in each month at 10.30am

First, third and fourth Tuesday in each month at 10.30am (family) & Fourth Friday in each month at 11.00am (civil)

Second and fourth Wednesday in each month at 10.30am (civil and family)

Second Friday in each month at 10.30am

First and third Friday in each month at 10.30am.

KILKENNY Kilkenny (056) 772 1019

First, second, third & fourth Wednesday in each month at 10.30am & Second Thursday in each month at 10.30am

First, third and fourth Monday in each month at 10.30am & First, second and third Tuesday in each month at 10.30am & Fourth Tuesday in each month at 2pm - juvenile & Fourth Thursday in each month at 10.30am

Civil - First Thursday in each month at 10.30am (Civil) & Third Thursday in each month at 10.30am (Family)

Second Monday in each month at 10.30am (family) & Fourth Tuesday in each month at 10.30am (civil)

DISTRICT 23: COUNTY WEXFORD

DISTRICT COURT AREA AND VENUE

DISTRICT AREA AND VENUE

DISTRICT COURT OFFICE TELEPHONE

GOREY Wexford (053) 912 2097

WEXFORD Wexford (053) 912 2097

DISTRICT 24: WATERFORD CITY

WATERFORD CITY Waterford (051) 874657

DISTRICT 25: COUNTY KILDARE

ATHY Naas (045) 980120

NAAS Naas (045) 980120

SUMMARY JURISDICTION

SUMMARY JURISDICTION

SCHEDULED SITTING DAYS AND COMMENCEMENT TIMES OF COURTS

First, third and fourth Wednesday in each month at 10.30am & First and second Thursday in each month at 10.30am.

Second , third and fourth Monday in each month & Second, third and fourth Tuesday in each month. All sittings at 10.30am

First, second, third and fourth Monday at 10.30am & First, second, third and fourth Tuesday in each month at 10.30am (Garda charge sheets only) & First, second, third and fourth Thursday in each month at 10.30am (Garda summonses only, summary and indictable)

Second and fourth Tuesday in each month at 10.30am

First and third Tuesday in each month at 10.30am & First, second, third and fourth Wednesday in each month at 10.30am & First, second, third and fourth Thursday in each month at 10.30 a.m

CIVIL JURISDICTION

CIVIL JURISDICTION

SCHEDULED SITTING DAYS AND COMMENCEMENT TIMES OF COURTS

SCHEDULED SITTING DAYS AND COMMENCEMENT TIMES OF COURTS

Second Wednesday & third Thursday in each month at 10.30 a.m. (family)

First Tuesday and fourth Thursday in each month (Family), First Monday in January, February, April, September, October and December. First Monday of March, July and November (Civil). All sittings at 10.30am.

First, second, third and fourth Monday in each month at 10.30am (matters for hearing only) & First, third and fourth Wednesday in each month (family) & Second Wednesday in each month at 10.30am (HSE matters)& First Friday in each month at 10.30am (Licensing, state summonses, city & county council summonses and othe misc. non-criminal matters) Children matters at 2.00pm & Second & third Friday in each month at 10.30am (licencing, state summonses, city and county council summonses, parking tickets and other miscellaneous noncriminal matters) & Fourth Friday in each month (civil) at 10.30am

Second and fourth Tuesday in each month at 10.30am

First Monday in each month at 10.30am (civil: state summonses, urban & other miscellaneous matters) & Third Monday in each month at 10.30am (civil matters only) & Second & fourth Monday in each month at 10.30am (family)

LICENSING COURTS

ORDER 81

1. A Judge of the District Court shall hold a court, to be known as the Annual Licensing Court, in each court area in the Judge's district on the day of the last sitting of the Court for that court area for the transaction of the business of the Court exercising its summary jurisdiction held in the month of September each year.

2. Every such Annual Licensing Court shall hear and determine – all such applications made to it for certificates, licenses, orders, or renewals thereof, and objections to the grant or renewal of such certificates, licences or orders, as are provided for in Orders 63 to 89 of these Rules and are required to be made at the Annual Licensing Court; – any other application, objection or other matter which is required by statute or by Rules of Court to be made or brought at that court; and the Judge may adjourn any such court from time to time as circumstances may deem it necessary.

3. For the purposes of this Order the day of the last sitting of the Court in the month of September in the Dublin Metropolitan District shall be that sitting held on the last Thursday in that month each year.

Taken from the Irish Statute Book, S.I. No. 93/1997 – District Court Rules, 1997 (Part III: Civil Proceedings).

DUBLIN

COURT NO. 1

798 8003

Each Monday, Tuesday Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 10.30am to 1.00pm & 2.00pm to 5.00pm

COURT NO. 2 Each Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday

10.30am to 1.00pm & 2.00pm to 5.00pm Except Bank Holidays when the hours shall be: 10.30am to 1.00pm & 5.00pm (if required)

Each Saturday 10.30am to 1.00pm & 5.00pm (if required)

COURT NO. 3 Each Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday Each Saturday (if required) 10.30am to 1.00pm & 2.00pm to 5.00pm 10.30am to 1.00pm & 5.00pm

COURT NO. 4 Each Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 10.30am to 1.00pm & 2.00pm to 5.00pm

COURT NO. 8 Each Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 10.30am to 1.00pm & 2.00pm to 5.00pm

COURT NO. 17 Each Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 10.30am to 1.00pm & 2.00pm to 4.00pm

COURT NO. 18

Each Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 10.30am to 1.00pm & 2.00pm to 4.00pm

Civil, juvenile, custody, summary

Civil, juvenile, custody, summary

Civil, juvenile, custody, summary

Custody, summary

Custody, summary

Custody, summary

Custody, summary

1. THE COURTHOUSE AT CRIMINAL COURTS OF JUSTICE, FLOOR 4, PARKGATE STREET, DUBLIN 8 TEL: (01)

2. THE COURTHOUSE AT CHANCERY STREET, DUBLIN 7 TEL: (01) 888 6197

COURT NO. 44 Each Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday

10.30am to 1.00pm & 2.00pm to 4.00pm (except bank holidays when the hours shall be 10.30am to 1pm and 4.00pm [if required])

COURT NO. 45 Each Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 10.30am, to 1.00pm 2.00pm to 4.00pm

COURT NO. 46 Each Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 10.30am to 1.00pm & 2.00pm to 4.00pm

3. DOLPHIN HOUSE, ESSEX STREET EAST, DUBLIN 2 TEL: (01) 888 6349/6344/6347/6348/6353/6368

COURT NO. 20 Each Monday, Tuesday Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 10.30am to 1.00pm & 2.00pm to 4.00pm

COURT NO. 40 Each Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 10.30am to 1.00pm & 2.00pm to 4.00pm

COURT NO. 41 Each Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 10.30am to 1.00pm & 2.00pm to 4.00pm

COURT NO. 47 Each Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 10.30am to 1.00pm & 2.00pm to 4.00pm

COURT NO. 49 Each Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 10.30am to 1.00pm & 2.00pm to 4.00pm

4. THE COURTHOUSE AT NO. 5 SMITHFIELD, DUBLIN 7 TEL: (01) 888 6751/6758/6753/6754

COURT NO. 55 Each Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 10.30am to 1.00pm & 2.00pm to 4.00pm

COURT NO. 56 Each Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 10.30am to 1.00pm & 2.00pm to 4.00pm

5. THE COURTHOUSE AT NO. 23 ÁRAS UÍ DHÁLAIGH, INNS QUAY, DUBLIN 7 TEL: (01) 888 6443/6161/6891

COURT NO 23 Each Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 10.30am to 1.00pm & 2.00pm to 4.00pm

THE COURTHOUSE AT NO. 8 FOUR COURTS, DUBLIN 7

COURT NO 8 Each Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 10.30am to 1.00pm & 2.00pm to 4.00pm

Custody, summary

Custody, summary

Custody, summary

Summary business

Summary business

Summary business

Summary business

Summary business

Juvenile business

Juvenile business

Civil and summary business

Civil and summary business

6. THE COURTHOUSE AT CARRIG AVENUE, DÚN LAOGHAIRE TEL: (01) 280 0038

THE COURTHOUSE AT DÚN LAOGHAIRE

Each Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 10.30am to 1.00pm & 2.00pm to 4.00pm

7. WESTPARK, TALLAGHT, DUBLIN 24 TEL: (01) 798 8003

THE COURTHOUSE AT TALLAGHT

Each Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 10.30am to 1.00pm & 2.00pm to 4.00pm

8. THE COURTHOUSE AT NORTH STREET, SWORDS TEL: (01) 840 3187

THE COURTHOUSE AT SWORDS

Each Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday 10.30am to 1.00pm & 2.00pm to 4.00pm

9. THE COURTHOUSE AT THE SQUARE, BALBRIGGAN TEL: (01) 840 3187

THE COURTHOUSE AT BALBRIGGAN

Each Thursday 10.30am to 1.00pm & 2.00pm to 4.00pm

10. CLOVERHILL, CLOVERHILL ROAD, DUBLIN 22 TEL: (01) 630 4912

THE COURTHOUSE AT CLOVERHILL

Each Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 10.00am to 1.00pm & 2.00pm to 4.00pm

11. BLOCK 4, GROVE COURT, GROVE ROAD, BLANCHARDSTOWN, DUBLIN 15 TEL: (01) 888 6480

COURT NO. 1

COURT NO. 2

Each Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 10.30am to 1.00pm & 2.00pm to 4.00pm

Each Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 10.30am to 1.00pm & 2.00pm to 4.00pm

12. GREEN STREET, DUBLIN 7 TEL: (01) 888 6294

THE COURTHOUSE AT GREEN STREET

Each Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday 10.30am to 1.00pm & 2.00pm to 4.00pm

Civil business, juvenile business, custody business and summary business

Juvenile business, custody business and summary business

Custody business, juvenile business, civil business and summary business

Custody business, juvenile business, civil business and summary business

Custody business

Juvenile business, custody business and summary business

Juvenile business, custody business and summary business

Juvenile business, custody business and summary business

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