Justin Kelly has been appointed the new Garda Commissioner and takes over from Drew Harris on September 1 next.
The appointment by the Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan this morning after being approved by the Cabinet.
Originally from Dublin Justin Kelly is currently Deputy Garda Commissioner responsible for Security,Strategy and Governance. He was heavily involved in recent years in the Garda crackdown against the Kinahan Drugs Cartel.
Announcing his appointment Minister O’Callaghan said: ” I am very pleased the Government has accepted my recommendation to appoint Justin Kelly.
The role of Garda Commissioner is one of the most challenging and impactful leadership positions in Ireland’s public service and the appointment process was suitably rigorous.
” I am satisfied that Justin Kelly is both qualified and particularly well suited to the role of Commissioner given his extensive leadership experience over the last 30 years in some of the most challenging issues facing An Garda Siochana including national security, domestic and sexual violence, and organised crime.
” I know Justin is fully committed to providing a high visibility, highly trusted policing service to the public in keeping with the Garda mission of Keeping People Safe.”
New Commissioner Kelly will serve a five year term on a salary of €314,512 a year.
Mr Kelly has a strong background both academically and in operational policing particularly in combating organised crime groups and safeguarding the security of the State.
Minister O’Callaghan also paid tribute to the outgoing Commissioner Drew Harris and for his focus in tracking down and prosecuting those involved in organised crime resulting in a substantive drop in the number of gun related deaths carried out in Ireland.
