The Policing and Community Safety Authority (PCSA) today publishes its inaugural Annual Report setting out the work undertaken during its first year of operation, marking a new era of policing oversight and community safety in Ireland.
Established in April 2025, the PCSA is an independent, statutory agency responsible for the oversight of An Garda Síochána. It is a successor organisation to the Policing Authority and Garda Síochána Inspectorate.
The core objective of the PCSA is to oversee and assess the performance of An Garda Síochána in providing policing services to communities across Ireland and in its work with partner organisations to ensure the safety of those communities.
The Authority comprises nine members and is supported by an Executive team led by a Chief Executive.
During its first year, the PCSA:
- Held eight meetings with the Garda Commissioner, including four in public, discussing issues such as conduct and discipline, and roads policing;
- Visited more than 50 garda stations and specialist units across the country to inform its oversight work;
- Developed new inspection and performance assessment frameworks;
- Carried out a major public consultation on the establishment of the Policing Priorities, receiving 3,794 public submissions;
- Published two assessments of policing performance; and
- Developed its first Strategy Statement for 2026-28.
Chair of the PCSA, Elaine Byrne, said:
“The Authority’s first year has been focused on strengthening oversight, engaging with communities, and building the systems needed to support effective policing.
“Our engagement throughout the year has provided valuable insights into people’s experiences and expectations, informing and shaping our work.
“These conversations are vital in supporting the oversight of policing services that are trusted, responsive, and focused on the needs of the public.
“In 2026, the PCSA will continue to strengthen its inspections, performance assessment, and public engagement, supporting effective policing and safer communities across Ireland.”