Mark Toland named new head of Garda Inspectorate

Justice Minister Charlie Flanagan has named Mark Toland as the new Chief Inspector of the Garda Síochána Inspectorate.

Mr Toland (pictured) has decades of experience in policing, having worked with the UK’s Metropolitan Police Service for over 30 years and as a member of the Garda Inspectorate from 2012-16.

Mr Toland was appointed as a member of Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission in December 2016 and has now tendered his resignation to the President as per the Garda Síochána Act 2005.

Hugh Hume, a member of the PSNI, has also been appointed to the Inspectorate with effect from the end of the month.

Speaking after Mr Toland’s appointment yesterday, Mr Flanagan said: “I am pleased to announce Mark Toland’s appointment as Chief Inspector of the Garda Síochána Inspectorate with effect from today.

“In providing independent advice on the efficiency and effectiveness of the Garda Síochána, the Inspectorate plays an important role in the modernisation and strengthening of the Garda Síochána.

“Together with his colleagues, Ms Pauline Shields and Mr Hugh Hume, the Inspectorate will be able to draw on a considerable body of international policing experience to carry forward its valuable work.”