Two new reports have recommended radical reform of the top management structure of An Garda Síochána, with civilians appointed to senior positions.
The reports published today are by the Garda Síochána Inspectorate, set up in July this year and headed by former Boston police chief Kathleen O’Toole, and by the Garda Síochána Advisory Group, chaired by Sen. Maurice Hayes.
Both reports recommend more civilian roles in top garda management, including a new civilian post at Deputy Commissioner level to deal with administration, and a new post of Assistant Commissioner for Professional Standards.
The Garda Inspectorate Report also recommends three new executive civilian posts, while the Advisory Group urges accelerated recruitment of civilian support staff to release garda for operational duties.
The report has been welcomed by Tánaiste and Minister for Justice Michael McDowel, who said he would now be discussing the speedy implementation of the recommendations with Garda Commissioner Noel Conroy.
