Public trust in gardaí now at 89% – report

The report notes that some 700 body-worn cameras are now in use by gardaí across five stations in divisions in Dublin, Limerick, and Waterford. File picture: PA

A new garda report shows that 700 body-worn cameras are now in operation across five stations in divisions in Dublin, Limerick, and Waterford, while 15,000 mobility devices have also been issued to gardaí.

That’s according to the ‘Transforming An Garda Síochána 2018-2024’ report which is published today, Monday, by Garda Headquarters.

It also shows:

• 567 Garda stations are providing public services in communities;  
• 3,672 vehicles are now in operation making it the largest fleet in garda history; 
• Public trust of An Garda Síochána is now at 89%.  

The report sets out the journey of the transformation and growth taken by the gardaí since the publication of the Report of the Commission on the Future of Policing in Ireland (CoFPI) in 2018 which was guided by 10 key principles.

Programme of reform

It reflects a broad programme of reform from operational structures and systems to governance and standards as well as the ongoing transition and progress to date by gardaí — bringing about the biggest structural change in the gardaí.

It details how divisional protective service units are now staffed by highly-trained specialist detectives and how this change has delivered for communities in particularly for victims of child abuse, serious sexual assault, and domestic abuse.

The report also shows how:

• 75% of respondents agree that gardaí are community-focused;  
• 82% say gardaí are focused on human rights and community-based approaches to policing;  
• 4,000 Garda personnel have completed a University of Limerick-accredited course in policing and human rights law. 

New technology 

The report found that the issuing of 15,000 devices has minimised the time it takes to retrieve information on vehicles and people, as well as the issuing of fixed-charge notices.

It also outlines how the development and implementation of new technology systems has ensured that when gardaí are dispatched to an incident all relevant information is available to them.

Staff levels have also increased by 51% since 2018 which has helped release gardaí to front line duties as well as provide additional support to operational gardaí.

Garda vetting

The Garda vetting bureau is turning vetting applications around within eight days.

Garda Commissioner Drew Harris said: "This report serves to document our transformation journey, while highlighting some key changes implemented by An Garda Síochána under A Policing Service for Our Future.

"It provides an opportunity to reflect on the work that has been done over these past seven years to bring about really meaningful change in our organisation. 

While we have made progress, there is more to do.

"And so, An Garda Síochána will continue to adapt to the needs of the public and we remain committed to delivering a modern, community-focused policing service to the people of Ireland.”