The President of Ireland has laid a wreath at a memorial service to rededicate a monument to Garda members who have died in service.
Michael D Higgins joined Minister for Justice Helen McEntee and Garda Commissioner Drew Harris at the event at Garda headquarters in Phoenix Park in Dublin.
The refurbished Garda Monument of Remembrance features the names of more than 1,800 gardaí and Garda staff who died while in service since the founding of the Irish police force in 1922.
Family members of some of those Garda personnel whose names are inscribed on the monument attended Saturday afternoon’s memorial service.
Three read reflections during the ceremony.
The monument was refurbished as part of the Garda’s centenary commemorations.
President Higgins said he was honoured to attend the event.
“As a society, we owe a particular debt of gratitude to all those who serve in An Garda Siochana, and in each of our emergency services,” he said.
“All those who commit their working lives to An Garda Siochana contribute to the public good, protecting our citizens from harm and assisting them in what are often, for citizens and communities, their darkest, most painful moments.”
He added: “As President of Ireland, on behalf of all the people of Ireland, I thank them for their service.
“In remembering those taken in the most sudden of circumstances, in some cases most brutally, we are reminded of the bravery which is represented by all of those who have committed their lives to public safety, knowing that on any given day they may find themselves in the gravest of circumstances.”
The original Monument of Remembrance was unveiled in 1966.
Ms McEntee said it was a familiar sight in Phoenix Park.
“But despite its familiarity, it is very likely we have not understood its meaning or paused to reflect on its solemn significance,” she added.
“So today gives us a welcome opportunity to do that.”
Addressing the service, the minister spoke of the tragedy of the lives lost, and the pain still felt by their families and colleagues.
“I realise that the act of remembering can be difficult and painful for some,” she said.
“I know too the pain and sense of loss from the death of a loved one, especially a younger person, never fully leaves any of us.
“This memorial is not just a list of names. Each person was a much-loved son or daughter, a father or mother, a brother or sister, a friend and colleague, a wife or husband.
“Though tinged with sadness, this day and this memorial can also be a source of huge pride and joy.
“I hope, for all of you here today, this is an opportunity to remember the best of times.”
Mr Harris said the event provided an opportunity to commemorate the lives lost.
“Their lives meant so much to so many,” he said.
“I hope that every day as we pass this monument that we think of those whose names are inscribed here.
“I also hope that it will prompt all Garda personnel to think of our own service and the crucial role we all play to keep people safe”.
