Key Garda posts filled in fight against crime and terrorism

GARDA Commissioner Fachtna Murphy has filled a number of key senior positions in the fight against organised crime and terrorism.

In total, 13 officers have been promoted – three to chief superintendent and 10 to superintendent – and a further 20 officers have been transferred.

In the most senior appointment, Assistant Commissioner Noreen O’Sullivan has moved from human resource management to crime and security in Garda headquarters. She will have overall responsibility for crime policy and security issues, including combating subversive groups.

Asst Commissioner O’Sullivan has previously headed operations at the Garda National Drugs Unit. Detective Superintendent Pat Byrne, who had filled that role, joins her in crime and security.

He is promoted to detective chief superintendent in charge of security and intelligence.

Asst Commissioner Fintan Fanning moves to human resources from the south-east region.

Two other superintendents were promoted to chief – Eamonn Murray takes over telecommunications and John Harnett, moves from Blanchardstown, Dublin West, to community relations.

Chief Supt John O’Driscoll, who was in community relations, moves back to the Garda National Immigration Bureau while Chief Supt Martin MacLoughlin moves from there to take over the Garda Bureau of Fraud Investigation.