Garda Commissioner Attends Joint Meeting Of Wicklow And Wexford Policing Committees

Garda Commissioner Drew Harris attended a joint meeting of Wicklow and Wexford Joint Policing Committees held in Wicklow County Council on Thursday (7th December).

The meeting, chaired by Cllr Gerry Walsh, was attended by Chief Superintendent Derek Hughes, Wicklow County Council Chief Executive Emer O Gorman, members of An Garda Siochána, elected representatives, community representatives and officials of both Wicklow and Wexford County Councils.

The purpose of the JPC is to provide a forum where the Local Authority, Senior Garda Officers, Public Representatives and Community Representatives can consult, discuss and make recommendations on matters affecting the policing of their area.

Commissioner Harris highlighted the importance of democratic accountability stating that he “recognises the roles of the elected members and how essential it is to have a strong relationship with An Garda Siochána.”

Commenting on the new Operating Model for An Garda Siochána, the Commissioner said: “An Garda Síochána Operating Model and core structures have not fundamentally changed in its history, however, our society and communities have changed in that time, and will continue to do so. We want to organise and operate in a way that continues to work for Ireland now, and into the future.”

During the questions and answers session issues raised related to recent street demonstrations, staff and equipment resources for An Garda Siochána, tackling crime and preventative policing in local communities.

Commissioner Harris and Chief Superintendent Hughes provided comprehensive responses to all questions raised and thanked those present for their engagement and participation in the meeting.

Attendees paid tribute to the work carried out by An Garda Siochána within the Wexford and Wicklow Division and commended the work of Chief Superintendent Derek Hughes since joining the division.