On the day I was appointed Chief Inspector of the Garda Síochána Inspectorate in May, 2006, a representative of the media asked me, Do we need more police in Ireland I responded, First, we need to consider what the police we have now are doing, particularly those on the front lines. That is precisely what the Inspectorate attempted to do during this review of resource allocation in the Garda Síochána determine the demands on front line policing in Ireland and make recommendations to improve service to the community. The Inspectorate has consistently acknowledged the strengths of the Garda Síochána, particularly its deep community roots and crime fighting abilities. The Inspectorate’s purpose is to bring forward strategic recommendations that help build on that solid foundation. This report contains suggestions that will enhance front-line policing and provide better value for money.
