An Garda Síochána

An Garda Síochána, the Irish police force, is an integral part of daily life and plays an active role in working with and supporting children who are in trouble with the law and their communities. For example, Garda Síochána members are involved in local initiatives that help children understand the consequences of crime and try to help them stay out of the justice system. Some of these initiatives are funded under the Garda Youth Diversion Projects; there are currently 100 of these projects across the country.

If a child has to be taken to a Garda station, the reasons are explained so that they understand what is happening. As soon as it is possible, a Garda will contact the child’s parents, or guardian, and explain the situation to them. The parents or guardian will be asked to come to the Garda station. The child, parent or guardian can ask for a solicitor. The Garda will tell the child, and the parent or guardian, about this and will make contact with a solicitor if asked to do so.

Within An Garda Síochána, there are officers who specifically deal with situations involving children who come into conflict with the law. These Gardaí are called Juvenile Liaison Officers (JLOs) and are located nationwide.

For more information on the Garda Juvenile Diversion Programme and Garda Youth Diversion Projects, please see the Community Programmes section of this website. For further information on An Garda Síochana, please see www.garda.ie.