Garda Professional Standards Unit

The Garda Commissioner established the Garda Professional Standards Unit (GPSU) in February 2006.  

The purpose of the Garda Professional Standards Unit GPSU) is:

(a) To examine and review, as directed by the Commissioner, the operational, administrative and management performance of An Garda Síochána at all levels;

(b) To propose measures to the Commissioner to improve that performance;

(c)  To promote the highest standards of practice, as measured by reference to the best standards of comparable police services, in operational, administrative and management matters relating to An Garda Síochána.

The role of GPSU’s examination and review process is an element of corporate governance in An Garda Síochána through inspection and oversight.  The Unit also promotes organisational awareness of issues, more streamlined and effective processes, greater efficiencies and enhances the professionalism of An Garda Síochána.

There is a requirement on the Garda Commissioner to submit an annual report by 31st March each year to the Minister for Justice and Law Reform on the activities of the GPSU.  The annual report will be forwarded to the new Policing Authority when it is established. This report will be published on the Garda Website.

The functions of the Garda Professional Standards Unit include:

(a) Carrying out national and international research;

(b) Conducting operational audits;

(c) Identifying organisational strengths, areas for improvement, unique site specific issues and risks;

(d) Developing best practice policies, procedures and guidelines and/or standard operating procedures and manuals;

(e) Proposing measures to the Commissioner to improve performance with reference to the best standards of comparable police services, the highest human rights standards, the highest health and safety standards and the highest business standards.

The GPSU is located at Garda Headquarters, Phoenix Park. It is staffed by Garda members and civilian staff and is headed by a Chief Superintendent. The Garda Commissioner submits an annual report to the Minister for Justice and Equality on its activities.

The GPSU can be contacted at:

Garda Professional Standards Unit
Garda Headquarters
Phoenix Park
Dublin 8
D08 HN3X

Tel: +353 1 6660441