Garda Commissioner announces her resignation

Outgoing Garda Commissioner Nóirín O’Sullivan says she has enjoyed 36 years of privileged, enjoyable and proud service with an Garda Siochana.

She announced her surprise resignation yesterday afternoon – adding that she was not leaving to take up another job – but would be spending time with her family.

Noirin O’Sullivan’s resignation followed renewed opposition calls for her to step aside over ongoing controversies regarding the force.

She informed the Justice Minister and the Taoiseach yesterday afternoon of her decision to stand down, after 36 years, having recently returned from a 5 week break.

The Taoiseach says the Cabinet will discuss the resignation when it meets on Wednesday, while the Minister Charlie Flanagan announced the appointment of Deputy Commissioner Dónall Ó Cualáin as Acting Garda Commissioner, effective from midnight last night.

Minister Flanagan has expressed his sincere gratitude to the outgoing Commissioner, acknowledging her public service to the State in a ‘hugely demanding role’ while Leo Varadkar has also thanked her for her years of service on behalf of the Government and the Irish people.