Garda bosses say the “unprecedented” number of gangland convictions in the courts in the last fortnight highlights the “unrelenting” approach of State agencies to tackling organised crime.

Latest: The Education Minister Richard Bruton says the Government continues to have confidence in the Garda Commissioner, Nóirín O'Sullivan, despite recent Garda scandals.

GAY and lesbian gardaí could be on the verge of gaining formal recognition within An Garda Síochána.