National security and oversight high on the agenda of new Garda deputy commissioner

Former Assistant Commissioner, Dublin Metropolitan Region, Paul Cleary, has been announced as the new Garda deputy commissioner. File picture: Brian Lawless/PA

National security and handling enhanced oversight structures are set to feature strongly in the agenda of new Garda deputy commissioner Paul Cleary.

High level meetings with Government regarding security preparations for the upcoming Irish presidency of the EU, starting in just over a month, will also dominate his diary.

The Government announced the appointment of the Dubliner following a recent open competition.

Security, strategy, and governance

Mr Cleary officially began his position yesterday as deputy commissioner with responsibility for security, strategy, and governance.

The 52-year-old has been acting in this role on an interim basis since last September, after Justin Kelly became Garda commissioner.

He has held prominent positions during his career, including as assistant commissioner for Dublin, detective chief superintendent of the Garda National Cyber Crime Bureau, and detective superintendent at the Covert Human Intelligence Unit.

Operation Thistle targeted the Kinahan cartel

He was detective inspector in Dublin South Central, where he ran Operation Thistle, targeting mid-to-low tiers of the Kinahan cartel.

There are two deputy commissioners in the organisation, the other being Shawna Coxon, who is deputy commissioner operations.

Making the announcement justice minister Jim O’Callaghan said Mr Cleary had performed a variety of operational policing roles and led “successful serious crime investigations”.

Mr Kelly congratulated Mr Cleary: “Paul is a valuable member of the Senior leadership team, and he is highly regarded for his proactive and positive leadership style.”

The national security brief has extended in recent years, including espionage and hybrid threats, a spate of Islamist-inspired terrorist attacks and a threat from domestic far right elements.

The Garda National Crime & Security Intelligence Services comes under his brief.

Security for the EU presidency will top his agenda for the rest of the year.

He also liaises with oversight bodies, such as the expanded Policing and Community Safety Authority.

He supervises the Anti-Corruption Unit and Internal Affairs.

It is understood another announcement may follow regarding a vacancy at rank of assistant commissioner. Currently, assistant commissioner Jonathan Roberts is covering both Governance and Dublin.

• Cormac O’Keeffe, Security Correspondent