Seán Canney TD, Minister with responsibility for Road Safety and Leader in Cabinet of the Independent Ministers, has held a productive meeting with the new Garda Commissioner, Justin Kelly, along with Deputy Commissioner Shawna Coxon and Assistant Commissioner Paula Hillman. Also in attendance was Chief Superintendent Thelma Watters.

Minister Canney said he was delighted to meet with the Commissioners of An Garda Síochána, and to have the opportunity to discuss key issues of importance to policing and public and road safety.

Topics covered at the meeting included Garda recruitment and the recent Crowe Report on Roads Policing. The Garda leadership confirmed that they will fully take on board the recommendations contained in the Report.

Minister Canney emphasised his full confidence in An Garda Síochána, stating that the issues highlighted in the Report related to the conduct of a small number of individuals and were not reflective of the force as a whole.

The Commissioners confirmed that Garda numbers are on track to reach the ultimate goal of 15,000 to be delivered enhancing the organisation’s capacity to protect communities across the country.

Minister Canney said: “I want to acknowledge the openness and commitment shown by Commissioner Kelly, Deputy Commissioner Coxon and Assistant Commissioner Hillman. Our discussions were constructive and forward-looking, particularly in relation to recruitment and road safety. I have every confidence in the leadership and in An Garda Síochána as a whole. The men and women of the force play a vital role in protecting our communities, and I look forward to working with the Commissioner and his team into the future.”