Irish police officer killed at Dublin checkpoint named as Kevin Flatley

An Irish police officer killed at a checkpoint in Dublin on Sunday has been named as Kevin Flatley.

The 49-year-old, who had spent 26 years as a garda, was killed after being struck by a motorbike on the R132 at Lanestown before 1pm on Sunday.

The motorcyclist, a man aged in his 30s, is understood to be in a serious condition in Beaumont Hospital.

The President led tributes to Garda Flatley and expressed his condolences to his family and colleagues.

“Garda Flatley dedicated his career to public service and to keeping people safe,” Michael D Higgins said.

“The loss of a Garda has a deep impact on society due to this strong connection and my thoughts are with his family and all those who knew and cared for Garda Flatley across his life.”

Garda Commissioner Drew Harris said the death of Garda Flatley was “a terrible reminder of the dangers faced by Gardai”.

He said the death marks the 90th garda killed while on duty.

“My thoughts, and the thoughts of all personnel in An Garda Siochana, are with Kevin’s family and friends,” he said.

“We also think of Kevin’s colleagues at the Roads Policing Unit, Dublin Castle.

“Kevin was on duty this afternoon, serving the public by endeavouring in keeping them safe on our roads.

“His death is a terrible reminder of the dangers faced by Gardai.”

Ireland’s premier and deputy premier extended their “deepest” and “heartfelt” sympathies to the family, friends and colleagues of Garda Flatley.

Taoiseach Micheal Martin said the death of an on-duty garda would be “keenly felt” by those who knew him, but also in communities across Ireland and by all gardai.

“Our thoughts and prayers go to all those in mourning following this terrible tragedy,” he said.

Tanaiste Simon Harris said Garda Flatley was “a long-serving and much-respected member” of An Garda Siochana, who was “devoted” to his job.

“There is no greater example of that than today when he was working to keep the public safe on our roads,” he said.

“It is also a tragic reminder of the risks that Gardai take everyday in the service of our country and its people.”

Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald said it was “shocking and heartbreaking” that a Garda has been killed in the line of duty.

“My deepest condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of Garda Kevin Flatley at what is an incredibly difficult time for them as they face this terrible loss.”

Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan said Garda Flatley’s death will bring “heartbreak” to his family, friends and Garda colleagues across the country.

“The women and men of An Garda Siochana go out to work every day to keep Ireland safe,” he said.

“They put the welfare of others ahead of themselves, as they work to shield us from harm and to strengthen our communities.”

Chief Constable Jon Boutcher expressed his “heartfelt” condolences on behalf of the PSNI.

“The loss of an officer is felt across the entire policing family and our thoughts are with his family, friends and An Garda Siochana colleagues at this difficult time,” he said.

“Kevin’s death is a stark reminder of the risks that police officers face every day as they work to protect the public and keep people safe.

“His dedication, service and sacrifice will never be forgotten.”

The Association of Garda Sergeants and Inspectors (AGSI) said it was a “devastating and “dark day” for the Gardai.

The organisation expressed their deepest sympathies to the family and colleagues of the garda.

“We are in shock and numbed at the news this afternoon,” AGSI general secretary Ronan Clogher said.

“No Garda shift is ever routine, but this one has ended in the most horrendous of circumstances.

“We extend our deepest condolences to the family, friends and colleagues of the deceased member.

“It is not easy for Garda colleagues today so please keep them in your thoughts.”

AGSI President Declan Higgins said support would be provided to Gardai and their families, as he appealed to the public to help with appeals for information.

“I would ask the public to respond to calls for any information as they work on this investigation.

“There will be tough days ahead and we really ask for the public’s support.”

The scene of the incident was preserved pending a forensic and technical examination, with traffic diversions put in place.

The local coroner and the Office of the State Pathologist have been notified.

An appeal for witnesses and those with relevant dash-cam or video footage has been made.