Government names 11 members of Garda inquiry

Justice Minister Frances Fitzgerald has named the eleven members of the “root-and-branch review” of An Garda Síochána.

The Commission on the Future of Policing in Ireland, chaired by Kathleen O’Toole, will be made up of Noeline Blackwell, Conor Brady, Johnny Connolly, Vicky Conway, Tim Dalton, Sir Peter Fahy, Dr Eddie Molloy, Tonita Murray, Dr Antonio Oftelie, Professor Donncha O’Connell, and Helen Ryan.

Under the final terms of reference for the commission, they may bring forward immediate proposals and rolling recommendations for implementation in advance of their final report.

Ms Fitzgerald (pictured) said the terms of reference “encompass all functions carried out by An Garda Síochána including community safety, state security and immigration, and also the full range of bodies that have a role in providing oversight and accountability including the three statutory bodies, but also my Department and the Government”.

She added: “The individuals who make up the Commission have impressive track records in their respective fields.

“The membership seeks to strike the right balance between domestic and international perspectives and between academic, operational policing, community and victims’ perspectives, change management, governance and indeed Government experience.

“These are people of the highest calibre and will bring the necessary diversity of thought and expertise to the task.”

Ms Fitzgerald said the inquiry would be “an opportunity to stand back and examine how we are to be policed as we approach the centenary of the establishment of An Garda Síochána”.