The Garda Inspectorate has launched a new investigation into An Garda Síochána’s ability to tackle corruption within the police force.

The inspectorate’s first-ever self-initiated inspection will examine Garda counter-corruption practices – examining how effective they are at preventing, detecting and mitigating against internal corruption.

It comes after the Garda Commissioner Drew Harris pledged to establish a new anti-corruption unit by the end of the year.

He said the new unit would investigate complaint and actively seek out unethical behaviour.

The Garda Inspectorate said its investigation, led by Deputy Chief Inspector Hugh Hume, would examine Garda procedures against international best practice.

Chief Inspector Mark Toland said: “While there is no doubt that the overwhelming majority of Garda members and staff are honest, professional and committed to the values outlined in the Garda Code of Ethics, the inspection will provide an independent forwarded looking report on the effectiveness of the Garda Síochána at preventing, detecting, and mitigating against internal corruption.”

“This will complement the ongoing work of the Garda Commissioner in putting in place the processes to prevent and tackle corruption within the Garda Síochána.”

The inspection will assess Garda practices in terms of:

• Strategy and Governance
• Organisational resilience against corruption
• Professional integrity
• Identifying and investigating corruption
• Reducing the impact of corruption

The inspectorate is due to report back by the end of the year.

Main image shows Deputy Chief Inspector Mark Toland. Image: Garda Inspectorate