Under Section 115 of the Garda Síochána Act 2005, the Inspectorate shall consist of three members, including a Chief Inspector and at least one woman and one man appointed by the Government. The members shall have served in the police service of another state or have obtained the relevant experience which in the opinion of the Government is suitable for the role of Inspector. A member or former member of the Garda Síochána is not eligible to apply for the position of Inspector.

The role of the Inspectorate is to promote excellence and accountability in the Garda Síochána by ensuring that the resources available to the Garda Síochána are used to achieve and maintain the highest level of efficiency and effectiveness in its operation and administration as measured by reference to best international policing practices.

No. The Garda Síochána Inspectorate has no statutory power to investigate a complaint against any member of the Garda Síochána. Such investigations are a matter for the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission which was also established under the Garda Síochána Act 2005. The Commission maybe contacted at [email protected] or LoCall 1890 600 800.

Yes. The Garda Síochána Inspectorate welcomes the views of members of the public, especially suggestions on how policing can be improved in their communities.

Write to us at c/o: Policing Authority, 4th Floor, 90 North King Street, Dublin 7, D07 N7CV or email [email protected].