Senior Garda intelligence positions should be filled by Irish citizens, independent TD Cathal Berry has warned.

The role of Deputy Garda Commissioner for Policing and Security is expected to be filled by Canadian woman Shawna Coxon.

Previously, she served as police officer in Toronto and joined An Garda Síochána in 2021 as Deputy Garda Commissioner for Strategy and Governance. 

If appointed to her new role, it is anticipated she will continue to work as as Deputy Garda Commissioner for Strategy and Governance. 

Speaking to Newstalk Breakfast, independent TD and former Army Ranger Cathal Berry said she was performing her duties for the State “quite ably” but he had a number of concerns about her potentially taking the job. 

“First of all, it’s a pension issue,” he said. 

“So, in 2014, a pensions’ cap was brought in - pretty much to target bankers - but it wasn’t index-linked to inflation. 

“So, over a 10-year-period, senior Gardaí who are highly experienced and spent maybe 35-years in the force, they’ve breached that pension gap. 

“As a result, a lot of Assistant Commissioners haven’t applied for promotion.” 

Gardaí on patrol, 29-8-23. Image: Sasko Lazarov/© RollingNews.ie

Deputy Berry said Ireland remains “highly unusual” in the EU as An Garda Síochána does the work that would normally be performed by an independent security service - such as MI5 in Britain.

“We’re the only country without a dedicated civilian intelligence service,” he said. 

“Uniquely, our police force is double hatted and that’s not a good structure either.” 

He also said it is “not best practice” for people who are not Irish citizens to be hired for such important positions. 

“[It’s] the same [reason] why Irish diplomats must be Irish citizens,” he said. 

“Because you’re dealing with very, very sensitive information on a national security basis and your first loyalty must absolutely be to Ireland. 

“Even the perception of having a second loyalty is just not good enough from an intelligence perspective.” 

Garda lantern at Castlepollard Garda Station. Image: KarlMPhotography / Alamy

Deputy Berry did note that Canada is among the best places for Ireland to recruit from for sensitive roles if it is forced to look outside the State.

“If there was any international country that was providing this interim service, let it be Canada,” he said. 

“It’s a very, very trusted brand… We’ve an excellent Canadian community here, an excellent Ambassador here in Dublin. 

“So, let it be Canada if any country but it’s not good practice.” 

An Garda Síochána has been contacted for comment. 

Main image: Graduation Parade of 102 newly attested Gardaí at the Garda College, Templemore. Photograph: Eamonn Farrell / RollingNews.ie