The new Garda Commissioner has said he does not view himself as an outsider.

Drew Harris has given his first press conference, where he discussed issues such as Garda resources, the Hutch Kinahan feud and the threat of republicanism.

The former deputy chief constable of the PSNI is the first external candidate to become head of An Garda Síochana

Today, he said he views himself as one of the team.

He observed: "I'm Irish, and I'm not sure how much of an outsider I am really.

"I am a police officer, I've joined a police organisation, I'm from the island of Ireland. I've always worked for the benefit of the people of Ireland, and worked very closely with An Garda Síochana in that respect as well."

He said the first three main areas he will focus on are resources, the plan for policing over the next few years and vulnerable people in crime.

He also said dissident republican groups remain a real and dangerous threat, noting: "They remain the greatest threat on the island of Ireland - they pose a threat and continue to do so.

"There's been a lot of success against them, but we are very aware these people are full of intent and a determination to carry out attacks."

Commissioners before Drew Harris became caught up in numerous Garda controversies and challenges.

When asked what he thought as he watched it all play out, he replied: "I’ll have a go at that".

Commissioner Harris was sworn in shortly after midnight on Monday as acting Garda Commissioner Dónall Ó Cualáin stepped down.

In his first statement as Commissioner he said he envisages a police service that is "responsive, accountable and fit for purpose".

Reporting by Stephanie Rohan and Stephen McNeice