Statement on the steps of Government Buildings by the Taoiseach, on the death of Detective Garda Colm Horkan

Last night we lost a member of An Garda Síochána in the most tragic of circumstances. Today a nation is grieving.

I’ve spoken to the Garda Commissioner earlier today, and the Minister for Justice, and we’re in touch with the family of Detective Garda Colm Horkan to offer our condolences and support.

I extend that also to all of his colleagues in Castlerea Garda Station, every member of An Garda Síochána, his friends, and all who knew him.

Gach lá cuireann an Garda Síochána dóibh féin ar an líne thosaigh ó thaobh chosc a chur ar choiriúlacht, thar ceann muidne go léir. Teastaíonn sin gníomhartha crógachta agus misniúla go rialta. Uaireanta, tá an toradh tubaisteach agus déanann an Garda an íobairt is airde le linn dó a dhualgais a chur i gcríoch.

Colm gave his life protecting the community he had served with distinction and courage during his 24 years as a member of An Garda Síochána.

His story is the same story of the thousands of men and women who wear the uniform, a story of courage and sacrifice and service.

Our Gardaí are our guardians of the peace and our defenders of the rule of law and they are role models in our society.

This tragedy is a heart-wrenching reminder of how much we owe our Gardaí for the work they do all over our country. They protect and serve our citizens, our communities, and our country, every day putting themselves on the frontline of crime prevention on behalf of all of us.

Tá ár smaointe leo siúd go léir atá faoi bhrón inniu de bharr na heachtra tragóidí seo.

Translation of Irish

First part:

Every day our Gardaí put themselves on the frontline of crime prevention, on behalf of all of us. This requires regular acts of bravery and courage. Sometimes the outcome is tragic and a Garda makes the ultimate sacrifice in the course of their duties.

Second part:

Our thoughts today are with all those grieving as a result of this tragic incident.

ENDS