A History of the Police in Ireland

One of the first major challenges facing the Irish government after Independence in 1922 was how to police the country. The Royal Irish Constabulary which had existed under British rule was a highly discredited force so they established the Civic Guard which later developed into An Garda Síochána. In this episode, I interview Dr Vicky Conway who reveals the complex history of An Garda Síochána from its early years when a mutiny rocked the force through to the Troubles.

Dr Vicky Conway is an associate professor of law in Dublin City University. An expert on policing in Ireland she wrote a book on the history of the Gardaí. She is also a member of the Policing Authority and hosts the podcast 'Policed'. You can check out Vicky's podcast Policed here.