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Justice Minister Alan Shatter today announced the appointment, by the Government, of 2 Assistant Commissioners, 8 Chief Superintendents and 23 Superintendents in An Garda Síochána.

Speaking after the Cabinet meeting the Minster said "I am very pleased that the Government today agreed with my request, sanctioned by my colleague the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, to make these appointments at this time. I have also received sanction from the Minster for Public Expenditure and Reform to allow for the consequential vacancies at Inspector and Sergeant level, arising from these senior appointments, to be filled by the Commissioner. This is a very positive development at this time and these appointments reflect the commitment of the Government to maintain the supervisory and management ranks in An Garda Síochána at the highest level possible."

The appointments were made by the Government following a competitive selection process in accordance with the statutory regulations governing promotions in the force.

The Minister noted that "Garda strength at the end of February 2012 is expected to be 13,551 based on current projections. This is very close to the strength at the end of 2007 (13,755). This recent reduction in numbers must be seen in the context of the programme of real and substantial reform which is being delivered in An Garda Síochána under the Croke Park Agreement. I would like to compliment all members of An Garda Síochána for the significant reforms that have been introduced in recent times. I have the fullest confidence in the Commissioner and the members in continuing on the delivery of this reform and on the commitments in the Garda Síochána Policing plan for 2012."