The force’s 2019 annual report highlights the commencement of the rolling out of A Policing Service for our Future, the government’s implementation plan for the recommendations of the Commission on the Future of Policing in Ireland.

This included a number of initiatives to “move human rights to the centre of policing delivery”, including the publication of a human rights strategy and the appointment of human rights legal advisors.

Last year also saw the commencement of the implementation of the new Garda operating model, as well as the continuing redeployment of Gardaí to frontline duties and the civilianisation of staff.

Justice Minister Helen McEntee said: “I would like to thank the Commissioner and all members and staff of An Garda Síochána for their positive engagement and ongoing work to ensure An Garda Síochána fully implements the vision outlined in ‘A Policing Service for our Future’.

“Reform can be difficult. However, implementation of the programme is not just in the best interests of the public, but also in the best interests of An Garda Síochána itself and of each and every individual who serves in it, and will ensure the delivery of a service which is modern, efficient, effective and fit for purpose.”