LIVE: Justin Kelly appointed to replace Drew Harris as Garda Commissioner

The Government has approved the appointment of Justin Kelly as the new Garda commissioner, Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan has announced.

Mr Kelly, who is currently a Deputy Commissioner, will replace Drew Harris, who is to retire after seven years as commissioner.

He has been appointed for five years and will officially take up the role on September 1

Commenting following the announcement, Mr O’Callaghan said: “The role of Garda commissioner is one of the most challenging and impactful leadership positions in Ireland’s public service and the appointment process was suitably rigorous.

“I am satisfied that Justin Kelly is both qualified and particularly well suited to the role of commissioner, given his extensive leadership experience over the last 30 years in some of the most challenging issues facing An Garda Siochana, including national security, domestic and sexual violence, and organised crime.

“I know Justin is fully committed to providing a high-visibility, highly trusted policing service to the public.”

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The selection process, which was led by the Publicjobs, identified 14 candidates and included two interviews and a presentation.

Mr Kelly was selected as the preferred candidate.

The outgoing commissioner Drew Harris will continue to lead the force until September, when he will retire after 41 years of service to policing across the island.

From Dublin, Justin Kelly has more than 30 years policing experience and was appointed to his current role as Deputy Commissioner Security, Strategy and Governance in October 2024.

He has a strong background, both academically and in operational policing, particularly in relation to combatting organised crime groups and safeguarding the security of the State.   

In his previous role, as Assistant Commissioner, Serious and Organised Crime, he was responsible for leading the national policing response in areas of drugs and organised crime, cybercrime, economic crime, immigration and crimes against vulnerable persons.

He was the strategic lead for the development of capacity and organisational policy in areas connected with serious crime investigation.