PICTURES: Celebrations for newly-attested gardai as they prepare for operational duty

Almost 160 gardaí were officially sworn in as members of the force at a ceremony in Templemore this Friday.

The newly-attested members of An Garda Síochána were recruited as part of the 2022 recruitment campaign. 

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The 157 probationer gardaí commenced their training in May 2023, and have undertaken a blend of online learning, on-site learning in the garda college, and experiential learning in training garda stations. 

The new gardaí commenced their Garda training in October 2023, and have undertaken a blend of on-line learning, on-site learning in the Garda College, and experiential learning in training Garda stations. 

During their training these new Probationer Gardaí were involved in community based policing, observed and assisted in serious crime investigations, policed across the country during St Patricks Day events, and assisted at community events, Garda Youth Awards ceremonies amongst other events.

Speaking at their attestation, Commissioner Drew Harris welcoming the new Garda probationers said: "In applying to become a garda you took the first steps towards a rewarding and varied career. And now as you prepare to embark on the road ahead, it is important to remember the journey to where you are today. It has taken strength. It has taken dedication. It has taken a drive to succeed, and a desire to be of service."

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Commissioner Harris reminded the new Garda probationers that as gardaí they have a responsibility to serve the people of Ireland. "As gardaí, it is your duty to maintain the highest standards. It is what the public expect and deserve, and what I expect too. Being a garda is a privilege and an honour.”

Wishing the new garda probationers well Garda Commissioner Harris added: "Thank you for choosing a career in An Garda Síochána. I hope the weeks and months ahead brings plenty of great first experiences and that your journey with us in An Garda Síochána is a long and fulfilling one. I now formally congratulate you on becoming members of An Garda Síochána.”

Of the newly-attested gardai, 102 will be initially be stationed in the greater Dublin area. A total of 38 will be stationed elsewhere in the east of the country, 11 in the south and six in the north west.