The delivery of a new garda uniform to frontline operational gardaí will kick off this week.
It's only the third time in 100 years that a formal upgrade of the garda uniform will take place.
The new operational uniform will be delivered to over 13,000 uniform members of An Garda Síochána of garda, sergeant and inspector rank across every garda region, division, district and in excess of 560 garda stations nationwide.
The new uniform responds to a desire from front-line gardaí for a new, practical operational uniform.
Over 6,500 members of An Garda Síochána contributed to the findings of the Cultural Audit, which dictated the uniform's design.
The new uniform will consist of:
• Two-Tone Soft Shell Jacket
• Two-Tone Waterproof Jacket
• Garda Blue Polo Shirt
• Operational Trousers
• Practical Baselayers
An Garda Síochána had previously updated its uniform policy to embrace the wearing of official headwear for religious and cultural reasons and beliefs including Turban, Kufi, Topi, Kippah, or Hijab.
Commenting on the uniform update, the Commissioner of An Garda Síochána Drew Harris said:
"We are all working to ensure that Ireland’s national police and security service remains best placed to meet the needs of an evolving society, and embracing this re-designed, modern uniform is a visual representation of a new era in policing."
He continued: "It is my hope that in receiving this new uniform, it will further enhance your sense of pride in being a member of An Garda Síochána as [they] go about [their] day-to-day duties. Projecting a professional appearance and wearing the uniform of An Garda Síochána with the deep respect it deserves are important because they underscore our overarching mission: Keeping people safe."
