157 Gardaí were attested as sworn members of An Garda Síochána at a ceremony in Templemore College last week.
Of those, four hail from County Laois. The first of these is Jack Cuddy.
From Camross and a past pupil of Mountrath Community School, Jack will be stationed in Clontarf.
Ballylinan native Emma Murphy was also among them and she will be stationed in Clondaklin.
Niamh O’Connor, from Portlaoise, also became a Garda and she will be assigned to Bray.
While Stephanie Traynor, who also hails from Portlaoise, will be stationed at the Bridewell in Dublin City Centre.
The 157 newly attested Gardaí bring to 710 the number of Probationer Gardaí attested since recruitment recommenced in 2022 following Covid-19 restrictions paused recruitment in 2020.
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 the attestation last Friday, Commissioner Drew Harris welcomed the new Garda probationers.
He 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.”
Commissioner Harris reminded the new Garda probationers that: “As Gardaí you have a responsibility to serve the people of Ireland.
“To keep them safe. To put them first. To act ethically. Professionally. And with integrity to protect the human rights of everyone you come into contact with.
“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 said: “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.”
SEE ALSO – Three Laois Gardai among 165 new recruits who pass out from Templemore
