Garda Act

The Garda Síochána Act 2005 is the first major revision of the operation of the Garda Síochána since the foundation of the State. The Act aims to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the operation and administration of the Garda Síochána. Key provisions of the Act set up:

• the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission
• the Garda Inspectorate
• the joint policing committees

The Act also provides for:

• revised discipline regulations and a new code of ethics
• a Charter on the Confidential Reporting of Corruption and Malpractice
• transfer of the Accounting Officer function to the Garda Commissioner
• establishment of Policing Priorities by the Minister
• transfer of responsibility for civilian staff to the Garda Commissioner
• The Introduction of the Garda Reserve

Garda Síochána Act 2005 Implementation Review Group Report (PDF – 1.6MB)