Around a quarter of gardaí surveyed are taking DNA samples without being properly trained — with many depending on a “how to” Garda video, an internal Garda inspection has found.

Frontline gardaí are calling for an independent survey of stress levels, claiming management is “failing” staff in relation to mental health.

The Garda Síochána has been hit with the retirement of another highly experienced senior officer with the flagged departure of its anti-terrorism chief.