Pictures: New Garda uniforms launched
Garda Commissioner Drew Harris with GardaĂ from Tallaght Station wearing their new uniforms. Picture: Colin Keegan, Collins Dublin
Garda uniforms have been updated to provide greater protection, durability and functionality.
The new look uniforms will be worn by over 13,000 members in more than 560 Garda stations from today.
It marks only the third time in 100 years that a formal upgrade of the Garda uniform has taken place.
The new uniform consists of a two-tone soft shell jacket, a two-tone waterproof jacket, a Garda blue polo shirt, operational trousers and practical base layers.
The current cap remains as a "unique and distinctive element of the Garda uniform" and uniform policy will continue to embrace the wearing of official headwear for religious or cultural reasons and beliefs including Turban, Kufi, Topi, Kippah, or Hijab.
The need and desire for a new and practical operational uniform was identified as part of an internal Garda Cultural Audit.
As part of the development of the new uniform, a pilot project was carried out at Tallaght, Henry Street and Bunclody Garda stations.
The Garda Commissioner said it is his hope the new uniform will enhance the sense of pride in being a member of An Garda SĂochána as they go about their duties.
The more formal shirt and tie uniform will still be worn by members when appearing in court and on certain other occasions.
The new uniforms cost in the region of €15 million over three years, according to the Garda Commissioner, Drew Harris.
"That is good value in terms of buying a uniform for some 14,000 members and then the subsequent updating and replacement of uniform.
"Also, you have to bear in mind that we have gone for a quality product which will withstand the rigours of day-in, day-out operational commitments."
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