IN PICTURES: Families celebrate landmark Garda graduation ceremony

The Garda College in Templemore was filled with celebration on Friday as 206 new members of An Garda Síochána were formally attested in the largest single graduating class since before the Covid-19 pandemic.

The graduation ceremony marked the successful completion of training for Intake 254, with family, friends and invited guests gathering to witness the new Gardaí take the oath of office before beginning their careers serving communities across Ireland.

Of the 206 graduates, 142 are male and 64 are female. The class also reflects the increasing diversity of An Garda Síochána, with 24 members born outside Ireland representing 15 different countries, including Slovakia, Poland, Brazil, Nigeria, Canada and Vietnam

Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration Jim O'Callaghan addressed the graduates, congratulating them on choosing a career in public service and acknowledging the commitment required of members of An Garda Síochána.

The ceremony was also attended by PSNI Chief Constable John Boutcher, whose presence was welcomed by the Minister as a sign of continued cooperation between both policing services.

Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly described the occasion as another important step in strengthening policing resources, noting that the 206 newly attested Gardaí would soon be joined by another intake of more than 200 trainees arriving at the Garda College.

Friday's passing-out parade provided plenty of proud moments as the graduates marched in the square before celebrating with family members following the formal ceremony.