New Garda uniform goes into service

You many notice something a little bit different about our local gardai out on the beat today.

An Garda Síochána's new uniform became operational from 7am this mornig (Monday, 15th, August 2022.

The change, during the 100th anniversary year of the founding of An Garda Síochána, is only the third time that An Garda Síochána has undertaken a formal change of the Garda uniform.

Over the past number of months a logistical operation delivered the new uniform to approximately 13,000 members of An Garda Síochána of Garda, Sergeant and Inspector rank, in excess of 560 Garda stations across every Garda Region, Division, District nationwide.

The new contemporary uniform incorporates elements such as durability, protection and functionality and the new elements consist of:

• Two tone Soft Shell Jacket

• Two Tone Waterproof Jacket

• Garda Blue Polo Shirt

• Operational Trousers

• Practical Base layers

According to a Garda statement: "This is the first time that elements of the uniform, other than the uniform cap, will feature the Garda Crest and demonstrates the respect held by An Garda Síochána for this unique symbol as we enter the second century of policing in Ireland.

"The current uniform cap remains in operation as a unique and distinctive element of the Garda uniform.

The contract for supplying the uniform was awarded to James Boylan Safety Ltd (T/A JBS Group), an Irish SME company based in Monaghan.

JBS Group are a privately owned Irish Company established in 1944 that specialises in the supply of operational uniforms and protective supplies.

An Garda Síochána has previously updated our uniform policy to embrace the wearing of official headwear for religious and cultural reasons and beliefs including Turban, Kufi, Topi, Kippah, or Hijab.