Big changes confirmed as Clare and Tipperary garda divisions formally merge

THE CLARE and Tipperary garda divisions have formally merged as part of the ongoing reorganisation of the force across the country.

As of this Monday, the new Garda Operating Model has been rolled out in the Banner and Premier counties - having been announced late last year.

The new division, which be headed up by Chief Superintendent Colm O'Sullivan, now has seven functional areas replacing the previous garda districts.

Each of the functional areas - business services, performance and assurance, crime, and community engagement - will be overseen by a superintendent.

"The restructure reflects international best practice as well as the realities of modern day policing in Ireland, the changing nature of crime and population trends," said a garda spokesperson who said it will enable gardai to provide a greater focus on community policed based on local needs.

The senior management team for the new Clare/Tipperary garda division has also been confirmed.

*Chief Superintendent Colm O Sullivan (Ennis garda station): overall responsibility for Clare/Tipperary garda division

*Superintendent John Ryan (Ennis garda station): Clare Community Engagement Functional Area

*Superintendent Oliver Baker (Nenagh garda station): Clare East/Tipperary North Community Engagement Functional Area.

*Superintendent Edmond Golden (Thurles garda station): Tipperary Central Community Engagement Functional Area

*Superintendent Kieran Ruane (Clonmel garda station): Tipperary South Community Engagement Functional Area

*Superintendent James Tierney (Nenagh garda station): Clare/ Tipperary Crime Functional Area

*Superintendent Conor Dillon (Tipperary Town garda station): Clare/ Tipperary Performance Assurance Functional Area

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Under the new operating model, the current garda stations at Ennis, Shannon, Tulla, Crusheen, Sixmilebridge, Newmarket-On-Fergus, Kilrush, Kilkee, Kilmihil, Kildysart, Ennistymon, Miltown Malbay, Corofin, Lisdoonvarna and Ballyvaughan are included within the Clare Community Engagement Functional Area.

The garda stations in Killaloe and Scariff are now included in the East Clare – Tipperary North Community Engagement Functional Area.