First batch of recruits join depleted Garda traffic corps

The first batch of recruits to a heavily depleted traffic corps have been taken on as part of a five-year plan to bring its strength back to pre-austerity levels.

The 87 new members join a revamped traffic corps, now known as Roads Policing, to reflect the wider brief in combating crime as well as traffic offences.

A further allotment of 63 members will follow in October, bringing the strength of the unit to more than 700 by the end of the year.