The History of the Garda Síochána Retired Members Association (GSRMA) r 50th Anniversary 1961 - 2011

Fidelity and Justice Fidelity and Justice

Message from Tony Sourke, President, Garda Síochána Retired Members’ Association

am honoured and humbled to address you, the members of the Garda Síochána Retired Members’ I Association, as your President. It gives me great pleasure to extend my warmest greetings to all our members on this the year of our 50th anniversary.

On September 14th it will be my privilege to welcome Her Excellency, President Mary McAleese, Senator Dr Martin McAleese, Mr TD, Minister for Justice and Equality and to our 50th anniversary celebrations in Westmanstown Sports and Recreation Club.

The first committee, whose names are listed in this special edition of Síocháin, worked tirelessly to set up the structure of the successful organisation that we have today. Having helped to establish the Irish State and maintain its democratic institutions, in retirement they continued to work in a dignified and selfless manner to promote the interests of retired members of An Garda Síochána in a positive way. Successive energetic committees continued this pioneering work that has continued up to the present day.

It is with deep respect and reverence that we honour those founding fathers; we salute their achievements and acknowledge the role played by their families. I look forward to meeting the large number of our guests, from all parts of the country, attending the event. Ar dheis Dé go raibh siad.

In conclusion we remember all members of An Garda Tony Sourke Síochána, serving and retired, who have passed to their President. eternal reward. Garda Siochana Retired Members’ Association.

2 Fidelity and Justice

Message from Alan Shatter TD, Minister for Justice and Equality, to the Garda Síochána Retired Members’ Association

am delighted to be given this opportunity to wish a on your experience and very happy 50th anniversary to all the members of the example. I Garda Síochána Retired Members’ Association and your families. Each of you will have lived through periods In a few years we will be celebrating the 100th anniversary of change in An Garda of the foundation of this State. This State has its beginnings Síochána. In 1959 in the aftermath of a war of independence and a civil war. the first female gardaí It was a difficult time for all those involved in the process were appointed and we of government, for all those involved in upholding the law. remember them today In order to survive these early years the State needed a law and the enormous enforcement body that was absolutely fair and impartial and contribution that women have made to the organisation above politics. An Garda Síochána provided this service and to this association. We must also acknowledge those from the outset. The State is deeply indebted to you and members who performed peace keeping duties overseas and your predecessors for your service and your professionalism. who were global ambassadors for this country. Most of all It is appropriate at this time to reflect on the invaluable we remember with the deepest respect all of those who lost contribution made by members of the Force to the building their lives in the line of duty. of modern . An Garda Síochána has a proud tradition of support for Members now retired have served this country well through its members and in the last 50 years your organisation has some difficult and turbulent times and this will not be continued to provide this support for retired members. forgotten. Many of the young members today will not Not only have you supported each other but you have remember the time when part of the island was in the grip contributed to many charitable organisations with your of sectarian and political strife. Members of An Garda time and your money. This is yet another example of what Síochána lost their lives in the fight against terrorism and An Garda Síochána do best, looking out for the most we remember them today. The threat from terrorists has vulnerable in our society. changed, but the gardaí continue to protect the citizens from those who want to defy the democratic will of the I thank you for the excellence of your service over the years overwhelming majority of people on this island. The and wish you and your families well. I congratulate this challenges for today’s gardaí are as great as ever with the Association on this important anniversary and wish you increase in gangland crime and dealing with communities continued success in the future. devastated from the ravages of drug abuse. Your legacy is not just to the State but to today’s Force which can draw Alan Shatter TD, Minister for Justice and Equality

3 Fidelity and Justice

BACKGROUND They were very disappointed in December 1960, when n Garda Síochána was founded in February, a Government order was made to merge rent allowance 1922. By the late 1950s to early 1960s many permanently into the pay structure for serving members. A of the first generation gardaí had retired. While The rent allowance therefore no longer existed and the serving in the Force they lived in official accommodation question of making it pensionable did not apply. The rights or received a small rent allowance annually from the State. of the garda pensioners were either forgotten or deliberately Suddenly, after retiring, they realised they had to find ignored by the State. alternative accommodation and exist on a pension. Some found it difficult to survive and emigrated overseas to seek Their definition of ‘Parity’ employment to support their family. “That irrespective of the date of retirement, a garda pension should be automatically adjusted so that it would be the same as On September 10th 1960, 19 garda pensioners met in the pension of a garda of equivalent rank and service, who had the Queen’s Hotel, to discuss their grievances. Cork just retired on pension, whether that be then or in the future.” was also the base for the Garda Síochána Pensioners’ Organisation (GSPO) that was founded in 1951 and This dream was eventually realised on Budget Day, 1984, absorbed into the new association. In September 1960 when full parity was implemented by the Government. the Cork comrades did not realise that throughout the country garda pensioners were gathering and forming Officers elected at Moran’s support groups. Hotel, , January, 18th 1961 The following officers were elected and the meeting was In early January, 1961, retired Garda Sergeant Tom adjourned for one week. Madden wrote three letters to the Dublin Evening Mail highlighting the injustice of the meagre pensions paid to Chairman: Daniel Brosnan retired members. The feedback was instantaneous and Vice Chairmen: Peter Heffernan/Tom Keyes resulted in 40 retired colleagues attending a meeting at Hon. Secretary: Tom Conway Moran’s Hotel, Talbot Street, Dublin on Wednesday, Hon. Treasurer: Tom O’ Leary January 18th 1961. At the subsequent meeting held at Moran’s Hotel, in January 1961 the following committee was elected: Eugene Farrelly Michael Conlon Tom Madden James Cahill Frank O’Hehir Jim Finnerty Patrick O’ Sullivan

A third meeting was scheduled for Moran’s Hotel, on Monday, February 6th 1961 and it was agreed that all those attending should contribute a half-crown to fund Their major grievances at the time were that they wanted the organisation. parity of pensions with gardaí who were retiring at that time and in the future. A garda pensioner who retired in Meeting at Moran’s Hotel – 1955 had 24 per cent less of a pension than that his 1961 February 6th 1961 retired colleague. These retired gardaí, while serving in There was huge enthusiasm when over 200 retired gardaí the Force, had pushed to have the garda rent allowance assembled at Moran’s Hotel, Talbot Street, Dublin of approximately £18 per annum made pensionable. on Monday, February 6th 1961 for the official launch

4 Fidelity and Justice

of the Garda Síochána Pensioners’ Association. The distribute free of charge, meeting agreed to prepare a memorandum to present a quarterly pensioners’ to the Government outlining their case for increasing journal, if the association garda retirement pensions. A committee meeting was could supply 20 pages scheduled for the February 27th 1961 to examine a draft of advertisements. The copy of the memorandum. Tom O’ Leary (treasurer) name given to the new had no difficulty collecting the half-crown contribution journal was An Síothadóir to fund the new association. Membership was open to all which means pacifier or in receipt of a pension for service in An Garda Síochána person who keeps the and to widows whose husbands served in the Force. The peace. Tom Keyes was pressure of administrative work led to the secretary resigning appointed manager and to concentrate on his own employment. The Central Tom O’ Leary, editor. Committee then appointed Michael Conlon as acting The very first issue secretary with Tom O’ Leary becoming organising secretary of An Síothadóir was as well as treasurer. published in January, 1962. John Nolan, a retired garda who worked for the Shortly afterwards the Central Committee expanded and the publishers, did marvellous work for many years collecting following were co-opted: the advertisements for the journal. Later the title of the Seán Liddy (President) journal was changed to Síocháin and in January, 1971, Robert Wolfe (Vice-President) retired Garda Sergeant Ted Cahill was appointed the new Denis McCarthy (Cork) manager to oversee its publication. Paddy Brogan (Cork) The first AGM Joint Consultative Council On February 7th 1962, Moran’s Hotel, Dublin was the On September 26th 1961, the Garda Síochána Pensioners venue for the first AGM of the new association. A total Association joined the Joint Consultative Council which of 600 representatives countrywide assembled to witness represented retired State servants, including retired teachers proceedings opened by Daniel Brosnan, Chairman of and army officers. Central Committee. In his first presidential address, Seán Liddy stated: “All great movements have small beginnings and, as you are aware the embryo of our association came to life here on the 6th of February 1961, and tonight we celebrate its anniversary.”

Records show many country branches were well represented with delegates from Ballina, Ballinasloe, Ballinrobe, Boyle, , Castlerea, Claremorris, Clonmel, Cork, Drogheda, , Ennis, , Gorey, Loughrea, Killaloe, Kilrush, Sligo, Swinford, Thurles, Templemore and Wexford.

Speakers at the first AGM were Daniel Brosnan; Tom An Síothadóir Keyes (Vice Chairman); James Cahill, Tom Madden; Denis The new Central Committee realised the need for a journal McCarty (Cork) and TS McDonagh (Dundalk). like the Garda Review to communicate with retired gardaí. Capt. DJ O’ Kelly, (the first editor of the Garda Review) The following Central Committee elected in 1962, made a proposition that the firm of Cahill & Co, Parkside remained almost unchanged up to the time of President Press, Parkgate Street, Dublin, would print, publish and Liddy’s death in March, 1965.

5 Fidelity and Justice

President: Seán Liddy Committee: Mrs Alice Flanagan, Mrs Elizabeth Gallagher, V. President: Robert Wolfe Mrs Margaret McGilloway, Mrs Nora O’ Halloran, and Mrs Chairman: Daniel Brosnan Christina Sinnott. V. Chairmen: Tom Keyes and Peter Heffernan Gen. Secretary: Tom O’Leary Mrs Quigley held the office of President for ten years. Treasurer: Eugene Farelly Committee: Tom Madden, Frank O’ Hehir, Patrick The committee nominated two representatives to attend O’ Sullivan, Denis McCarthy, Paddy Brogan, Archie Central Committee meetings. After establishing the McAllister, John Berry. Widows’ Committee, the Central Committee did marvellous work in persuading the Government, in 1962, to increase By December, 1961, membership of the association the minimum scale for widows from £59 to £98 per annum reached 1,400 and the first central office was opened plus a substantial increase in children’s allowance. at 38 Westmoreland Street, Dublin. Later, the annual membership fee was doubled to meet the expense of moving In 1986, the ladies committee was disbanded because, to a new office at 43 Dawson Street in October 1962. by then, they were part of improved branch committee Records show that the rent agreed for Dawson Street Office structure which was able to nominate widows and retired was £15 per quarter. In October 1973, the central office members to the Central Committee of the association. was located at 32 Nassau Street. When that lease expired in April 1999, the Central Committee made a decision to AGM – Tuesday, March 3rd 1964 transfer head office to its true home at the Garda Club, The third AGM saw Moran’s Hotel packed to capacity with Harrington Street, Dublin 8. at least 200 people unable to gain admission. The Central Committee realised that in future they would have to seek a Inauguration of a Widows’ larger venue. Committee In 1952, Garda Martin Quigley, Irishtown Station Dublin, President Seán Liddy informed those present that both died leaving his widow Elizabeth to rear their seven he and Tom O’ Leary had travelled to the Irish Club in children. Four years later, Mrs Quigley carried-out a survey London during the year to establish a new branch of the to establish the names of other garda widows. Through association. Seventy-five retired gardaí attended the London her voluntary work, she corresponded with many garda meeting. They emigrated after giving a lifetime of valuable widows and built a support group. A ladies’ branch of service because they could not afford to live here on their the Garda Síochána Pensioners Association was officially miserable pensions. Most of them were still paying for their launched at Moran’s Hotel, Dublin on the July 24th 1962. families’ education back home. President Seán Liddy along with Vice Chairman Tom Keyes were present at the inauguration. The new ladies committee elected were: President: Mrs Elizabeth Quigley Hon. Secretary: Mrs Marjorie Ellis Treasurer: Mrs Elizabeth Cummins

6 Fidelity and Justice

LIST OF CENTRAL Chairman: Daniel Brosnan Patrick E. Sheahan, Marjorie Ellis, Gen. Sec.: Tom O’ Leary Christina Sinnott. COMMITTEES Committee: Eugene Farrelly, Denis Connolly, Tom Keyes, Tom Madden, 1975 1966 Frank O’ Hehir. President: Alfred I. Flood President: Seán Hughes Chairman: Tom O’ Leary Chairman: Daniel Brosnan 1971 Gen. Sec.: Tom Costello Gen. Sec.: Tom O’ Leary President: Seán Hughes Committee: Denis Connolly, Seán Committee: Eugene Farrelly, Chairman: Daniel Brosnan Hughes, Tom Collins, Tom Keyes, Denis Connolly, Tom Keyes, Peter Gen. Sec.: Tom O’ Leary Pat Campbell, Tom Delaney, Bill Heffernan, Patrick O’ Sullivan, Committee: Eugene Farrelly,Denis Isdell, Seán MacBrinn, A. McAllister, Frank O’ Hehir, Tom Madden, John Connolly, Tom Keyes, Tom Madden, Malachy Tuohy, Patrick O’ Sullivan, Berry, A. McAllister, Bill Isdell, Pat John Berry, Pat Campbel, Bill Isdell, Patrick E. Sheahan, John Cashin, Campbell, Elizabeth Quigley, Marjorie A. McAllister, Frank O’ Hehir, Patrick James Callery, Dan Brosnan, Eugene Ellis. O’ Sullivan, Peter Shiel, Tom Cahill, Farrelly, Marjorie Ellis Teresa Coffey. Elizabeth Quigley, Marjorie Ellis. 1967 1976 President: Seán Hughes 1972 President: Alfred I. Flood Chairman: Daniel Brosnan President: Alfred I. Flood Chairman: Tom O’ Leary Gen. Sec.: Tom O’ Leary Chairman: Daniel Brosnan Gen. Sec.: Tom Costello Committee: Eugene Farrelly, Denis Gen. Sec.: Tom O’ Leary Committee: Denis Connolly, Eugene Connolly, Frank O’ Hehir, Peter Committee: Eugene Farrelly, Denis Farrelly, Tom Collins, Frank O’ Hehir, Shiel, John Berry, Tom Madden, A. Connolly, John Berry, Seán Hughes, Pat Campbell, Tom Delaney, Bill McAllister, Pat Campbell, Elizabeth Tom Keyes, Pat Campbell, Ted Cahill, Isdell, A. McAllister, John Cashin, Quigley, Marjorie Ellis. A. McAllister, Frank O’ Hehir, Peter James Callery, Herbert Lee, Vincent Shiel, Patrick E. Sheahan, Marjorie Collins, Marjorie Ellis, Lillian Hyland. 1968 Ellis, Christina Sinnott. President: Seán Hughes 1977 Chairman: Daniel Brosnan 1973 President: Alfred I. Flood Gen. Sec.: Tom O’ Leary President: Alfred I. Flood Chairman: Tom O’ Leary Committee: Peter Shiel, Denis Chairman: Daniel Brosnan Gen. Sec.: Tom Costello Connolly, Frank O’ Hehir, Eugene Gen. Sec.: Tom O’ Leary Committee: Bill Isdell, Eugene Farrelly, John McBrien, Michael Kiely, Committee: Eugene Farrelly, Seán Farrelly, Frank O’ Hehir, Denis Tom Madden, Elizabeth Quigley, Hughes, Denis Connolly, Tom Keyes, Connolly, Tom Collins, Pat Campbell, Marjorie Ellis. John Berry, Pat Campbell, Ted Cahill, Tom Delaney, A. McAllister, John Bill Isdell, A. McAllister, Frank O’ Cashill, James Callery, Herbert Lee, 1969 Hehir, Patrick O’ Sullivan, Peter Shiel, Marjorie Ellis, Lillian Hyland. President: Seán Hughes Patrick E. Sheahan, Marjorie Ellis, Chairman: Daniel Brosnan Christina Sinnott. 1978 Gen. Sec.: Tom O’ Leary President: Alfred I. Flood Committee: Eugene Farrelly, Denis 1974 Chairman: Tom O’ Leary Connolly, John Berry, J. Cronin, Frank President: Alfred I. Flood Gen. Sec.: Dan Spillane O’ Hehir, A. McAllister, Peter Shiel, Chairman: Tom O’ Leary Committee: Tom Collins, Pat Seán Flase, Pat Campbell, J. Molloy, Gen. Sec.: Tom Costello Campbell, Frank O’ Hehir, Tom TJ Casey, Tom Madden, Marjorie Committee: Eugene Farrelly, Seán Costello, Bill Isdell, Eugene Farrelly, Ellis, Elizabeth Quigley. Hughes, Denis Connolly, Tom Keyes, Tom Delaney, A. McAllister, John John Berry, Pat Campbell, Ted Cahill, Cashin, James Callery, Herbert Lee, 1970 Bill Isdell, A McAllister, Frank O’ Marjorie Ellis, Lillian Hyland. President: Seán Hughes Hehir, Patrick O’ Sullivan, Peter Shiel,

7 Fidelity and Justice

1979 Michael Sutton, John Cashin, Tom Chairman: Jim Fitzgerald President: Alfred I. Flood Costello, Paddy Driscoll, Redmond Gen. Sec.: Dan Spillane Chairman: Jim Fitzgerald Shea, Patrick Clerkin, Bill Isdell, Committee: Patrick Clerkin, Gen. Sec.: Dan Spillane William Farrell, Lillian Hyland, Helena Patrick Dunne, Paddy Driscoll PJ Committee: Bill Isdell, Tom Collins, Glynn. Rogan, Tom Ryan, Dave Dillane, Eugene Farrelly, Pat Campbell, James John Hartigan, Michael Sutton, Callery, John Cashin, Tom Costello, 1984 Frank White, Helena Glynn, Kay O’ Tom Delaney, Paddy Driscoll, Herbert President: Alfred I. Flood Shaughnessy. Lee, Dan O’ Donovan, Tom O’ Leary, Chairman: Jim Fitzgerald Marjorie Ellis, Lillian Hyland. Gen. Sec.: Dan Spillane 1989 Committee: Herbert Lee, James President: Paddy Driscoll 1980 Callery, Eugene Farrelly, Tom Chairman: Jim Fitzgerald President: Alfred I. Flood Delaney, Michael Sutton, John Cashin, Gen. Sec.: Dan Spillane Chairman: Jim Fitzgerald Tom Costello, Redmond Shea, Patrick Committee: Michael Bohan, Dave Gen. Sec.: Dan Spillane Clerkin, Bill Isdell, William Farrell, Dillane, Dave Devaney, Tom Ryan, Committee: Tom Collins, Eugene Dave Dillane, Paddy Driscoll, Frank PJ Rogan, Seán Murray, Frank White, Farrelly, Tom Delaney, John Cashin, White, Lillian Hyland, Helena Glynn. Helena Glynn, Kay O’ Shaughnessy, Tom Costello, Paddy Driscoll, Bill Brid Reid. Isdell, Herbert Lee, Dan O’ Donovan, 1985 Lilian Hyland, Helena Glynn. President: Alfred I. Flood 1990 Chairman: Jim Fitzgerald President: Paddy Driscoll 1981 Gen. Sec.: Dan Spillane Chairman: Tom Ryan President: Alfred I. Flood Committee: John Cashin, Patrick Gen. Sec.: Frank White Chairman: Jim Fitzgerald Clerkin, Tom Delaney, Dave Dillane, Committee: Michael Bohan, Dave Gen. Sec.: Dan Spillane Paddy Driscoll, Bill Isdell, Redmond Dillane, Seán Murray, PJ Rogan, Committee: Tom Collins, Eugene Shea, Michael Sutton, James James Callery, David Devaney, Joe Farrelly, James Callery, Tom Dellaney, McGreedy, Lillian Hyland, Helena Wilson, Don Boyle, Peg McNamara, John Cashin, Paddy Driscoll, Dan O’ Glynn. Brid Reid, Bernie Morrisey. Donovan, Tom O’ Leary, Herbert Lee, Bill Isdell, Michael Sutton, Lilian 1986 1991 Hyland, Helena Glynn. President: James Callery President: Paddy Driscoll Chairman: Jim Fitzgerald Chairman: Tom Ryan 1982 Gen. Sec.: Dan Spillane Gen. Sec.: Frank White President: Alfred I. Flood Committee: Paddy Driscoll, Michael Committee: Michael Bohan, Joe Chairman: Jim Fitzgerald Sutton, Tom Delaney, John Cashin, Wilson, Dave Dillane, Dave Devaney, Gen. Sec.: Dan Spillane Patrick Clerkin, Redmond Shea, Dave Seán Murray, PJ Rogan, Pat Quinn, Committee: Herbert Lee, James Dillane, Frank White, Helena Glynn, John Hartigan, Paddy McGinley, Callery, Eugene Farrelly, Tom Kay O’ Shaughnessy, Lillian Hyland. Bernie Morrissey. Delaney, Michael Sutton, John Cashin, Tom Costello, Paddy Driscoll, 1987 1992 Redmond Shea, Patrick Clerkin, Bill President: James Callery President: Dave Dillane Isdell, William Farrell, Lillian Hyland, Chairman: Jim Fitzgerald Chairman: Tom Ryan Helena Glynn. Gen. Sec.: Dan Spillane Gen. Sec.: Frank White Committee: John Cashill, Patrick Committee: Paddy McGinley, Bríd 1983 Clerkin, Dave Dillane, John Hartigan, Reid, Bernie Morrissey, Seán Murray, President: Alfred I. Flood Tom Ryan, Michael Sutton, Paddy John Hartigan, PJ Rogan, Michael Chairman: Jim Fitzgerald Driscoll, Kay O’ Shaughnessy. Bohan, Joe Wilson, Pat Quinn, Dave Gen. Sec.: Dan Spillane Devaney, Don Boyle. Committee: Herbert Lee, Eugene 1988 Farrelly, James Callery, Tom Delaney, President: James Callery

8 Fidelity and Justice

1993 1998 Durcan, John Hartigan, Christy President: Dave Dillane President: Seán Murray Lonergan, Grace Lyden, Attracta Chairman: Tom Ryan Chairman: Dave Devaney Lynch, Joe Storey, John Thornhill. Gen. Sec.: Frank White Gen. Sec.: Don Boyle Committee: Tom Hennessy, Peter Committee: PJ Rogan, Tom Ryan, 2004 to 2006 McGing, Paddy McGinley, John Phil Callanan, Dave Devaney, John President: John Hickey Mulcair, Seán Murray, Paddy Driscoll, Hickey, Peter McGing, Jim Cannon, Chairman: John Durcan Bríd Reid, PJ Rogan, Joe Wilson, Dave Dave Dillane, Hue Gallagher, Tom Gen. Sec.: Gerard Lovett Devaney. Hennessy. Committee: Pádraic Costell, John Hartigan, Jim Cannon, Pat Doherty, 1994 1999 Joe Dunleavy, John Hennessy, Jim President: Dave Dillane President: Seán Murray Joyce, Christy Lonergan, Grace Lyden, Chairman: Tom Ryan Chairman: Dave Devaney PJ Rogan, Tony Sourke, Joe Storey, Gen. Sec.: Don Boyle Gen. Sec.: Don Boyle John Thornhill. Committee: PJ Rogan, Tom Ryan, Committee: Phil Callanan, Jim Seán Murray, Pat Fitzgerald, Bríd Cannon, John Durcan, Pat Fitzgerald, 2006 to 2008 Reid, Dave Devaney, Tom Hennessy, Tom Hennessy, John Hickey, Peter President: Pádraic Costello Pat Quinn, Peter McGinley, Dan McGinley, PJ Rogan, Tom Ryan, Dave Chairman: John Durcan Kenny, Paddy McGinley, John Dillane, Hue Gallagher, Dan McCann, Gen. Sec.: Gerard Lovett Mulcair. Pádraic Costello. Committee: Cathal Murphy, Tony Sourke, John Hartigan, Gerry Buckley, 1995 2000 Jim Cannon, Joe Dunleavy, Fintan President: Tom Ryan President: Seán Murray Dunne, Christy Lonergan, Grace Chairman: PJ Rogan Chairman: Dave Devaney Lyden, Charlie McCarron, John F. Gen. Sec.: Don Boyle Gen. Sec.: Don Boyle Murray, Tony Sourke, Joe Storey, John Committee: Phil Callanan, Joe Committee: Tom Hennessy, Peter Thornhill. Wilson, Dave Dillane, Dave Devaney, McGing, Hue Gallagher, John Durcan, Peter McGing, Pat Quinn, Brid Reid, Jim Cannon, Christy Lonergan, Phil 2008 to 2010 Tom Hennessy, Paddy McGinley. Callanan, Joe Wilson, John Hickey, President: Pádraic Costello Seán Cashman, Padraic Costello, Pat Chairman: Cathal Murphy 1996 Fitzgerald. Gen. Sec.: Gerard Lovett President: Tom Ryan Committee: Charlie McCarron, Chairman: PJ Rogan 2001 Tony Sourke, John Hartigan, Gerry Gen. Sec.: Don Boyle President: PJ Rogan Buckley, Noel Campbell, Jim Cannon, Committee: Phil Callanan, Dave Chairman: Phil Callanan Joe Dunleavy, Fintan Dunne, Devaney, Dave Dillane, Pat Fitzgerald, Gen. Sec.: Don Boyle John Durcan, Pat Lehane, Christy Tom Hennessy, John Mulcair, Peter Committee: John Hickey, Pádraic Lonergan, Grace Lyden, Charlie McGing, Brid Reid, Joe Wilson, John Costello, Jim Cannon, Seán Cashman, McCarron, John F. Murray. Hickey, Dan McCann, Frank White. Peter Donelon, John Durcan, Pat Fitzgerald, John Hennessy, Christy 2010 to 2012 1997 Lonergan, Attracta Lynch, Paddy O’ President: Tony Sourke President: Tom Ryan Brien, Joe Storey, John Thornhill. Chairman: Charlie McCarron Chairman: PJ Rogan Gen. Sec.: Gerard Lovett (2010) John Gen. Sec.: Don Boyle 2002 to 2004 Rafter (2011) Committee: Dave Devaney, Tom President: PJ Rogan Committee: Gerry Blake, Grace Hennessy, John Hickey, Phil Callanan, Chairman: John Hennessy Lyden, Fintan Dunne, Tim Bowe, Dave Dillane, Pat Fitzgerald, Dan Gen. Sec.: Eddie O’ Donovan Noel Campbell, Pádraic Costello, John Kenny, Joe Wilson, Peter McGing. Committee: John Hickey, Paddy O’ Durcan, Paschal Feeney, Tom Griffin, Brien, Phil Callanan, Seán Cashman, John Hartigan, Pat Lehane, Christy Pádraic Costello, Pat Doherty, John Lonergan, Noel McCarthy.

9 Fidelity and Justice

FOUNDING MEMBERS

Below is a brief profile of duty at this point after 12 negotiating skills came the founding members of noon on this date will be to good use after he was our Association. shot down without further unanimously elected notice.” By 11am a large chairman. For the following crowd had gathered and 13 years, Daniel Brosnan remained to see if Madden was the driving force would be shot. Madden and chairman behind the stayed on the point until Central Committee of the 1pm and returned to it again Association. at 2pm. Nothing happened. He returned to the DMA in 1928, was promoted to sergeant in 1937 and retired Tom O’ Leary Tom Madden in 1960. In January 1961 he Tom O’ Leary was born Tom Madden was born wrote the three letters to the in Lisdoonvarna, Co. in Castlebar in 1899 and Dublin Evening Mail that Clare. Tom, with Reg. joined An Garda Síochána led to the formation of the No. 5343, spent most in 1922. He was one of the Garda Síochána Pensioners’ of his garda service as a station party sent to open Association. He later served Weights and Measures Mullingar Garda Barracks for many years on the Thomas Keyes inspector with Dublin in September 1922. On Central Committee of the Tom Keyes was one of the Corporation. He retired November 8th of that year, association. first vice chairmen of the from An Garda Síochána along with 80 gardaí under Central Committee and was in June 1952. In January Superintendent Cullen, he appointed manager to An 1961 he was a founding set off from South Wall, Síothadóir journal in 1962. member and first treasurer Dublin on the S.S. Munster Hailing from Tipperary, he of the Garda Pensioners’ with a task to make-up a joined An Garda Síochána Association. Elected general station party for Cork city. in March, 1922 and was secretary in 1962 he held The Cork barracks was sited promoted to sergeant six the office for ten years. initially at the School of months later. He was sent In October 1973, he was Music and later at Moore’s with a party of eight to elected Central Committee Hotel. He had his share of open Raphoe Station and chairman. During his term danger and excitement in Daniel Brosnan seven months later was in office, the Association those turbulent times in Daniel Brosnan was a promoted to inspector and set-up a network of Cork city. One outstanding Kerryman who rose through assigned to New Ross. branches throughout the incident occurred in the the ranks from sergeant in Promoted superintendent country. As editor of An spring of 1923, while he 1924 to superintendent in in 1924, he served as Síothadóir and Síocháin he was on traffic duty at the 1953. All his garda service district officer in Bantry, kept all the Garda retired corner of Washington Street. was in Dublin Metropolitan Bandon and Abbeyleix members well informed. That morning when taking- Division. For a number before retiring in 1955. A After his retirement from up traffic point duty at of years he served on the founder member of GPA, he the Central Committee in 10am, he observed a typed Central Council of the is credited with compiling 1979, the Dublin South poster on a shop building. Representative Body at the first memorandum branch presented O’ Leary It was signed by a famous Garda HQ. At the first of the association sent to with a rolled gold mounted Republican leader and read: meeting of the Garda Government. He was the umbrella in appreciation of “Any member of the Civic Pensioners’ Association first to advocate ‘parity’ with his work. He died on the Guards found on traffic in January 1961, his serving members. December 14th 1981.

10 Fidelity and Justice

FOUNDING MEMBERS of the Cork Branch which 4826 and a year later was was founded a few months promoted to sergeant. Cahill prior to the national body. spent most of his service With a Cork membership in the Cavan/Monaghan of 127, he was able to Division and retired in 1952. provide great support to Cahill died in January 1979. the founding members of the Garda Síochána Pensioners Association. At Eugene Farrelly the first AGM in Moran’s A native of Kingscourt, Co. Robert Wolfe Hotel Dublin, McCarthy Cavan, Eugene Farrelly Robert Wolfe was member stated that on September joined An Garda Síochána of the old DMP at the time 10th 1960, the babe of in 1925. He was promoted of the Anglo Irish Treaty. the association was born detective sergeant in 1947 He was promoted sergeant when 19 true comrades while attached to Dublin in 1922 and continued got together at the Queen’s Castle. He retired from the his police service into Hotel in Cork city. He was gardaí in 1957 and became An Garda Síochána. In co-opted onto the Central a founding member of the 1930 he was promoted to Committee in 1961. Denis Connolly association in 1961. In 1962 inspector and ten years Denis Connolly was a native he was elected treasurer and later superintendent. He Patrick O’ of Glengarriff, Co. Cork held the post for a number was promoted to chief Sullivan and a founding member of of years. superintendent rank in Pat O’ Sullivan had served An Garda Síochána with 1942 and was transferred in Pearse Street as an Reg. No. 854. In 1962 to . Following inspector. He attended the he retired at the rank of retirement in 1947, he wrote first meeting in January chief superintendent and A Police Guide to the Law 1961 and played an active joined the Garda Síochána of Evidence which was part in forming the new Pensioners’ Association. In widely sought by gardaí and association. Pat was a 1966 he was elected as one law students. One of the first member of the Central of its vice presidents and vice presidents of the Garda Committee from 1961 until held the office for over ten Pensioners’ Association, 1974. years. Wolfe died in 1965 Frank O’Hehir Peter Heffernan Frank O’Hehir was born A native of Kilkenny, Peter near Ennis, Co. Clare and Heffernan joined the Dublin was a founding member of Metropolitan Police in 1905. An Garda Síochána, holding He was promoted sergeant Reg. No. 96. His brother in 1922 and three years James, who joined the later his DMP service was Force with him on the first amalgamated into An Garda recruitment day, was issued Síochána. He was promoted with Reg. No. 88. Frank to inspector in 1926 and gave all his garda service in to superintendent in 1940. James Cahill Donegal and retired from He was one of the founding Denis McCarthy James Cahill was on the Buncrana Station in April, members of the Association Denis McCarthy lived at 1961 Central Committee. 1958. Following retirement, and elected vice-chairman in Windmill Road in Cork He joined the Force in June he moved to live in Marino, 1961. and was Hon. Secretary 1923 with the Reg. No. Dublin with his family.

11 Fidelity and Justice

In January 1961, O’Hehir Ross, Enniscorthy, Dingle is now awarded by the created history again when and . Following presidents Association to members he was one of the first retirement he went to live in of the GSRMA who were retired members to join the Wilton Road, Cork city. He seriously injured in the new association. He was was elected chairman of the discharge of duty. elected onto the first Central Cork branch of the Garda Committee where he gave Pensioners’ Association 18 years sterling service. He when it was formed in died in February 1983. late 1960. In 1961 he was co-opted onto the Archie Central Committee of the McAllister Association. Archie McAllister was born in Cloughmills, Co. Antrim. He was one of the founding members of An Garda Síochána, (Reg. No. First President – 3114). McAllister served in Seán Liddy Seán Hughes Donegal, Granard, Redmills Seán was a native of Seán Hughes was born in and retired from Killucan Cooraclare, Co. Clare, Claremorris, Co. Mayo. He in 1954. He was very where he was local TD for joined An Garda Síochána involved with the formation the period 1918/22. He in April 1922 and in July of of the Garda Pensioners’ joined An Garda Síochána that year he was chosen to Association and in 1962 in 1922 and retired in 1953 take charge of gardaí for the was elected to the Central as chief superintendent of protection of Government Committee. His service Sligo/Leitrim Division. After Buildings. In March 1923 he record with the Central retirement he was appointed was appointed district officer Committee lasted until his John Berry (TC) as a member of the Military for Sligo Garda District. death in August, 1978. John Berry was born in Service Board. In 1961 he By 1928, he was district Clonbrook, Co. Kildare and was co-opted to the Central officer in Howth. While joined An Garda Síochána Committee and appointed stationed there he read law with Reg. No. 1455. He to the position of president in the national university resided at Windsor Road, of the Garda Síochána and was called to the Bar Rathmines, Dublin. He Pensioners’ Association. in 1934. He spent ten years served as a detective While returning home from as district officer in Mallow sergeant in Pearse Street and the garda pensioners office before moving to Dublin Castle. After retiring on Monday evening, March in 1943. He was a Munster from An Garda Síochána on 29th 1965, President Seán representative on the Garda May 25th 1951 he served as Liddy was involved in a Representative Body for an elected representative of traffic accident in Dublin many years before retiring Dublin Town Council from and died the following from An Garda Síochána 1966-73. From 1962 he was morning. He was laid to rest in July 1957. At the AGM a prominent member on the in Kilmacduane Cemetery, of the Garda Síochána Paddy Brogan Central Committee of the Cooraclare, with full military Pensioners’ Association in A native of Dunmore, Co. Garda Síochána Pensioners’ honours. His wife Nan, March, 1966, he was elected Galway, Brogan retired Association and was vice who died on January 8th the second president of the from An Garda Síochána chairman for some years. He 1984, was also a native of association and held the on March 18th 1960 died in 1981. Cooraclare. The Garda office for six years. He died having served in New Veterans ‘Liddy Medal’, in September, 1978.

12 Fidelity and Justice

the Garda Pensioners’ Paddy Driscoll was promoted to sergeant. Association and at their Paddy Driscoll was a He retired from the Force 1972 AGM was elected native of Ballycotton, from Glin, Co. Limerick president. He held the post Co. Cork, where football in 1982 and went back for a total of 14 years. He played a huge part in his to live in Abbeydorney died on the March 30th life. Driscoll figured on the with his wife, Catherine. 1997. remarkable garda team that Dillane immediately joined won the 1950 Cork County the Tralee Branch of the Football Championship Garda Síochána Pensioners’ and for ten years had the Association and while honour of representing branch secretary helped to Cork. He served as a garda revive the local branch. In Alfred I. Flood immigration officer in Cork 1984, he was elected to the Alfred Ignatius Flood was and retired in the 1970s. Central Committee and born in Dublin in 1904 After retirement from he held the position for 16 and received his secondary An Garda Síochána, he years. Between 1992 and education in Belvedere became actively involved 1995, he was president of College. He joined An James Callery with the Garda Pensioners’ the Association. Garda Síochána in 1924 James Callery was a native Association. In 1979, he and had Reg. No. 6328. of Ballyjamesduff, Co. was elected to the Central Better known as Alfie to Cavan and joined An Committee and for 13 friends, the name ‘A.I. Garda Síochána in 1925. years played an active role Flood’ appeared on many He served in many stations in the association. He was official garda circulars. He from Mayo, Birr, Drogheda, president of our Association was a member of the college Roscommon and Naas. for three years – 1989 to rugby teams which won the Following his promotion 1991. Senior Schools’ to superintendent in 1963 Cup in 1923 and 1924. On he served in Belmullet and leaving college he joined An Carrickmacross before Garda Síochána and at 19 retiring in 1969. After years of age was promoted retiring from the Force, he sergeant and posted became an active member in Tom Ryan to Tipperary Division. the Drogheda branch of the Tom Ryan joined An Garda During the 1930s he was association and was elected Síochána in 1943 and promoted to inspector to the Central Committee retired as superintendent in and superintendent ranks in 1975. At the ADM in 1981. A qualified barrister, and in September 1965 Dublin in July, 1986, James he was a founder member was elevated to chief Callery was elected president of the Garda Social Club, superintendent. In March for a three year term. the National Federation 1967, he was promoted Dave Dillane Pensioners’ Association and assistant commissioner and Dave Dillane was born in the Irish Senior Citizens in May that year became Abbeydorney, Co. Kerry Parliament. Ryan was a deputy garda commissioner. and joined An Garda member of the Central He retired from the Force Síochána in 1952. He Committee of the Garda on April 9th 1972 after won a County Football Pensioners’ Association for completing 47 years and Championship medal twelve years. He was elected four months service. with Leighlin Bridge while chairman between 1990 and Following retirement stationed in Carlow in 1994 and president of the he became a member of 1957. Two years later he Association for three years

13 Fidelity and Justice

1995 to 1998. Afterwards PJ Rogan in 1954 and was promoted was elected to the Central he served as a trustee and PJ Rogan, a native of to sergeant six year later in Committee in 1999. He held member of the Síocháin Foxford Co. Mayo, joined Dundalk. After a further the office of president from editorial board. An Garda Síochána in 1956, ten years he was promoted 2006 to 2010. serving in Fitzgibbon Street, to inspector and in 1977 Galway, and the Training he went to Tipperary town Centre. His 1981 promotion as a superintendent. Chief to inspector rank took him superintendent rank came in to Garda HQ in Dublin. In 1989 when he took charge 1985 he went to Clonmel of Westmeath Division. from where he retired a year He retired from An Garda later. Rogan was general Síochána in 1993 and joined secretary of the AGSI from the Athlone Branch giving 1983 to 1984. After retiring 12 years as branch secretary. from the Force, he helped to Between 1996 and 2006, establish a new branch for he was a member of the the Garda Síochána Retired Central Committee and Seán Murray Members’ Association in was president of the Garda Seán Murray was a native Templemore. In 1988 he Síochána Retired Members’ of Cavan and joined An was elected to the Central Association from 2004 to Garda Síochána in 1943. Committee and was 2006. His service record spans chairman of the committee Tony Sourke from Donegal, Castlebar, from 1995 to 1998. He was Pádraic Tony Sourke, a native of the Galway, Clonmel and finally president of the association Costello seaside town of Rush, is the retiring as district officer in from 2001 to 2004. His Pádraic Costello was a twelfth person to hold the in 1984. He was local branch, that he helped member of the AGSI office of president of Garda secretary of the local branch to establish, now has a National Executive for Síochána Retired Members’ of the association and for membership of 60. three terms prior to retiring Association. Retiring as a 25 years looked after the from An Garda Síochána detective superintendent in welfare of retired gardaí and as a detective inspector in 2003, he became active in garda widows in the region. 1995. An active member of the Dublin West Branch of In 1989, he was elected to the Dún Laoghaire Branch the association. He served the Central Committee and of Garda Síochána Retired on Central Committees served as president from Members’ Association he since 2004. 1998 to 2001.

John Hickey John Hickey is a native of Belgooley near . His father Tom was a founding member of the Force who served in nearby Ballyfeard Station. John joined An Garda Síochána

14 Fidelity and Justice

Chairpersons

Dublin. Promotion to years on the committee and for over 20 years on the sergeant came in 1955, was chairman from 2001 AGSI National Executive. followed by inspector rank until 2002. He was a great ambassador in 1964 and superintendent for the AGSI while holding in 1968. For many years their presidential office for he was secretary of the seven years. After retiring Garda Superintendents’ from An Garda Síochána in Jim Fitzgerald Association. He retired 1998 he joined the GSRMA Jim Fitzgerald was a high- from the Force in 1988 and elected to the Central profile official with the and joined the Dublin Committee in 2000. He Garda Representative Body South branch of the Garda was chairman of Central until his retirement from the Síochána Pensioners’ Committee from 2004 to Force in July 1977. Having Association. One year later, 2008. given 12 years as chairman he was elected onto the of the Garda RB his many Central Committee where talents were sought by the he gave 12 years unbroken Jack Hennessy Garda Síochána Pensioners’ service to the Association. Jack Hennessy retired as Association. In 1979, He was chairman of the a detective inspector from Fitzgerald, a member of the committee from 1998 to in Naas Branch, was elected 2000. 1988. Since then he is a very to the Central Committee. active member of the Naas Immediately he was elected Branch. In 2000 he was chairman and from that elected as a Leinster Rep. position he steered our on the Central Committee association for 12 years. and served three terms A dedicated office holder, and served as chairman he was highly respected by from 2002 to 2004. He branch members. represented the association Cahal Murphy on St Paul’s Medical Aid Cahal Murphy retired as a Phil Callinan Board during his period on detective garda from Kevin Phil Callinan, a native of the Central Committee. Street in 1991. Since his Tipperary, joined An Garda retirement, he has given Síochána in 1958. While huge energy to the Garda on duty as a sergeant in Síochána Retired Members’ Tullow, Co. Carlow, on Association in Dublin January 16th 1978, he was South Branch. In 2006, he shot and seriously injured was elected to the Central during a bank robbery. He Committee for a two year Dave Devaney had a long association with term and held the office of Dave Devaney, a native of the AGSI and was their treasurer. On his re-election Tuam, Co Galway, joined president for two terms to the committee in 2008, An Garda Síochána in from 1978 until 1982. After he was appointed chairman. 1944. His service record retiring from the Force he During 2008 to 2010, he is like a geography map of was elected to the Central John Durcan shared his vast knowledge Ireland, from Kerry to Cork, Committee of the Garda John Durcan represented on welfare and entitlements Shannon, Birr, Abbeyleix, Síochána Retired Members’ the garda sergeants and with retired colleagues Newbridge, Gorey and Association. He gave ten inspectors from Donegal countrywide.

15 Fidelity and Justice

Charlie In-Service for Louth/ where he is now branch McCarron Meath in November secretary. He has served on A native of the Orchard 2000. Afterwards, he the Central Committee of County but now living became very active with the association since 2006. in Co. Louth, Charlie the Dundalk Branch of the In 2010, he was appointed McCarron retired as Garda Síochána Retired chairman. sergeant-in-charge of Garda Members’ Association GENERAL SECRETARIES of Tralee, was a Weights with the Garda Síochána Association. In 1994, Don and Measures inspector Pensioners’ Association. was promoted to the general at Garda HQ until he He was employed at head secretary position and held retired in 1977. In 1978, office from 1980 to 2000 the title for nine years. he was appointed general serving for a lengthy period secretary of Garda Síochána as general secretary and Pensioners’ Association and association trustee. Frank editor of Síocháin. He ran a White is the oldest surviving very efficient central office general secretary. for the association until he retired as general secretary in June, 1989. He continued Thomas as editor of Síocháin until Costello his untimely death in Tom Costello was a native December, 1989. of Co. Galway. He joined the Force in 1922 with Reg. No. 2861. He retired as a sergeant from Carlow- Eddie O’ Kildare Division in 1963. Donovan Between 1974 and 1976 he Eddie O’ Donovan is a was general secretary to the native of Tralee where his Association. Don Boyle father Dan served as a garda Don Boyle was born in for many years. His father, Dublin but reared on the who represented Kerry on Curragh of Kildare where the Central Committee his dad was an army officer. from 1979 to 1982 died He joined An Garda in 2006 at the age of 104 Frank White Síochána in 1955 and spent years. Eddie, retired from Frank White, a native of all his service in Detective the Garda Ministerial Co. Sligo, played inter- Branch. While at Dublin Driving Pool in 1997 and county football for Sligo Castle he was promoted in 2001 was appointed and Donegal. He had a detective sergeant in 1965 deputy general secretary of strong association with and in 1979 to detective the Garda Síochána Retired the Garda Representative inspector. In 1990, he Members’ Association. Association from the days retired from the force and During 2002 to 2004 he was of the Conroy Commission. appointed assistant general general secretary and gave a Dan Spillane He retired from the Force secretary for the Garda further four years as editor Dan Spillane, a native in 1978 and became active Síochána Retired Members’ of Síocháin.

16 Fidelity and Justice

Central Committee and Administrative Staff branch secretaries. Gerard is now employed part-time as assistant general secretary.

Gerard Lovett Gerard Lovett, a native of , Co. Cork, John Duffy retired in 2004 as a John Duffy retired as an detective inspector with John Rafter inspector in 2002 after Geraldine the . John Rafter is a Dubliner spending his final eight Kirwan He was appointed general who in December 2010 years as Garda Archivist Geraldine Kirwan is a native secretary of the association retired as a sergeant from and Curator in the Garda of Carlow and following in January 2005 and held Change Management Museum. Immediately, he resignation from An Garda the position for six years. Section of Garda HQ. He took up the role as deputy Síochána where she served His thorough understanding is now general secretary of general secretary for the in Garda HQ she joined of the association and IT the Garda Síochána Retired association and gave eight the association as office skills were a great asset to Members’ Association. years in the position. administrator in 2004. our name and unity. The black motif is a symbolic tribute to our dead comrades. The motto is loyalty and justice. A new name for new generation In 1988, the Kildare branch submitted a motion for debate our chain at the ADM to change the name to ‘Association of Retired Gardaí’. History of the Chain Michael Bohan from Drogheda, It was clear from the debate that the younger members of became a member of the Central the association were not happy with the word ‘pensioners’ Committee in 1989. Shortly afterwards as it made them seem prematurely old. However, the ‘Old he proposed that the president should Guard’ of the Garda Síochána Pensioners’ Association had wear a chain of office while attending official functions. muscle and the motion was defeated. It was almost a decade His dream became a reality for the 30th anniversary of the later that a similar motion appeared on the conference Association, in 1991. Chairman Tom Ryan had the pleasure clár for debate. This time many branches were in favour of presenting the new chain of office to President Paddy of changing the name but it took a few more years to Driscoll. finally agree on a new title. On January 1st 2002, the name was changed to the Garda Síochána Retired Members’ The chain was designed by Mr Lua Breen, Dunfanaghy, Association (GSRMA). Co. Donegal. His intention in designing the chain, was to project the Association as a modern progressive body, our crest yet mindful of its history. The overall medal shape has The official crest of the association a symmetry which is reminiscent of John Maxwell’s was designed by Mrs Liddy, daughter- original garda badge design but with a simpler and more in-law of President Seán Liddy. The contemporary approach. The overall ‘square circle’ shape central theme is the dove, a symbol of suggests discipline and restrained power. The incorporated peace. The black belt suggests strength Dove of Peace is a fitting symbol and the blue enamel

17 Fidelity and Justice

depicts the uniform colour. The black enamel is a reminder Maureen Browne, writing in The Irish Press on Saturday, of deceased members. The whole chain of office, with 30 November 23rd 1968, reminds us of how the first plates, is fabricated in gold-plated sterling silver with an generation of retired gardaí were easily recognised “by their enamelled crest. The association crest and motto are upright posture, a familiar blue shirt and a way of looking hand engraved. you straight in the eye. We know them and meet them every day strolling through our city streets, tending their gardens our website or working in some part-time jobs”. As part of the 50th anniversary celebration, the Garda Síochána Retired Members’ Association launched the Some of us, in the Garda Síochána Retired Members www.gardaretired.com website to improve our service. The Association, may remember the harsh conditions the first site was designed by James O’ Sullivan and Jamjodesign at generation of gardaí had to contend with. The ‘Barrack Inniscarra Co. Cork. Regulations’ which hung in every station, were invoked to keep the member in his place, governing not only his 1922 Commemorative working hours but his domestic and social life. Roll call Medals at 11pm; 24-hours leave per month; permission to wear civvies; permission to marry; divine service parades; While An Garda Síochána was celebrating its 70th unlimited working hours; transfer without explanation – all anniversary in 1992, Commissioner Patrick Culligan for £3 to £4.50 per week. honoured 29 surviving members of An Garda Síochána who were founding members of the Force. The garda veterans Central Committee 2010-2012 were invited to a special function at the Garda College and each was presented with 1922 commemorative medals. Later that year, Her Excellency, President Mary Robinson, invited these garda veterans to Áras an Uachtaráin to officially thank them for their garda service. James Phelan, (Reg. No. 363) the senior man present made a presentation to President Robinson.

Founding Members were easily recognised. Both spent many years building up the Association in Thurles and mid Tipperary. Front row (L-R): John Rafter (Gen. Sec.), Gerard Blake (Treasurer), Charlie McCarron (Chairman), Tony Sourke (President), Grace Lyden (Vice-President), Pádraic Costello, John Durcan. Back row (L-R): Tim Bowe, Tom Griffin, Christy Lonergan, Noel McCarthy, Paschal Feeney, Noel Campbell, John Hartigan, Pat Lehane, Fintan Dunne (insertion).

Editorial Comment This history was researched by Tim Bowe, Cork City Branch Secretary GSRMA, and a member of the Central Committee since 2010. He wishes to acknowledge the cooperation given by Sergeant Paul Maher, Curator of Dublin Castle, the Central Committee and Head Office Staff GSRMA. Above: Founding members Patrick Wall, Reg. No. 3924 (on The research is ongoing and updates may appear on our new left) and Michael J. Reidy, Reg. No. 6293. website www.gardaretired.com

18