TWENTY-one new Gardaí for the North Western Region were attested as sworn members of An Garda Síochána on Friday.

In all, 154 new Gardaí from 14 nations became sworn members of An Garda Siochána following their graduation from Templemore Garda College.

The North Western Region, which includes Donegal, received the lowest number of Gardaí, while the Southern Region saw the highest number of new Gardaí, at 66. Forty-five have been allocated to the Dublin region, while 22 new Garda members will be stationed in the Eastern region.

Males make up the majority (122) or 79 per cent, compared with 32 females (21 per cent).

A further 369 recruits are currently in training, and the next 200 trainees will enter the Garda College in Templemore today.

The new Gardaí commenced their Garda training in December 2024 and have undertaken a blend of on-line learning, on-site learning in the Garda College, and experiential learning in training Garda stations.

Speaking at Friday’s attestation, Commissioner Drew Harris welcoming the new Garda probationers said that while the day was a celebration, it was also a day for reflection.

“It is a time to reflect on what it has taken to get to this juncture in your lives. To decide how you will make the most of this important opportunity. To consider what kind of Garda you are going to be.”

Commissioner Harris further said: “I also urge you to consider that each engagement and each interaction be it with an individual, group or community, can and does, have a lasting impact.

“These sometimes brief encounters stay with people. Whether it is the time you took to chat with an older person; or to sit and comfort someone at a time of sorrow, or in returning as stolen item to a victim of crime.

“Because you are here – you will keep the people of Ireland safe.”