The Garda Síochána is the national police and security service of Ireland. It is more commonly referred to as the Gardaí or "the Guards". The service is headed by the Garda Commissioner, who is appointed by the Irish Government. Its headquarters are in Dublin's Phoenix Park.
A group of Gardaí in uniform
A member of the Garda Síochána with motorcycle
Garda Traffic Corps car
The two helicopters of the Garda Air Support Unit
The Constitution of Ireland vests executive authority in the Government of Ireland, which is headed by the Taoiseach, the head of government. The government – also known as the cabinet – is composed of ministers, each of whom must be a member of the Oireachtas, which consists of Dáil Éireann and Seanad Éireann. Most ministers have a portfolio of specific responsibilities such as departments or policy areas, although ministers without portfolio can be appointed.
Government Buildings in Dublin.
Image: Simon Harris at the Special European Council 2024 (cropped)
Image: Micheál Martin TD (cropped)
Image: Michael Mc Grath 2014 (headshot)