Gardaí trial apps designed to keep them out on the beat

A group of 50 gardaí commenced their shifts yesterday for a six-month test period which is likely to lead to a sea change in policing in the coming years.

Armed with mobile phones with special apps, the plan is to keep gardaí out on the beat, and away from their stations for most of their working hours.

The gardaí involved are based in the Limerick division which was designated to pilot test a new Active Mobility Strategy widely used in the US and UK.