Justin Kelly: New Garda Commissioner announced

The Irish Government has appointed a new Garda Commissioner who will be in term for five years.

Justin Kelly was appointed by the Minister for Justice, Home Affairs and Migration, Jim O’Callaghan and will replace former Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) deputy chief constable Drew Harris.

A three-week recruitment campaign was held by publicjobs (formerly the Public Appointments Service) in May, including an international search for suitable candidates, which resulted in 14 candidates.

Kelly was appointed to his current role as Deputy Commissioner Security, Strategy and Governance in October 2024.

The new commissioner will take up the role on 1 September 2025 with Commissioner Harris continuing to lead An Garda Síochána until that date.

The selection process included two interviews and a presentation by candidates as well as a detailed psychometric assessment.

Harris will retire after 41 years of service to policing on the island of Ireland, including a total of seven years as Garda Commissioner.

Minister 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.”

O’Callaghan said he was satisfied that Kelly is both qualified and “particularly well suited” to the role.