Held in Westport, this year’s AGSI Annual Delegate Conference brought together 165 delegates from 31 branches under the theme “Building a Force for Change.”
Over the course of three days, delegates discussed key issues affecting members and policing nationwide. Both Jim O’Callaghan and Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly addressed the conference, with delegates raising ongoing concerns directly during the event.
Subsistence & Travel Scheme Accepted
One of the key highlights of the conference was the acceptance of the new An Garda Síochána Travel and Subsistence Scheme, agreed through the Workplace Relations Commission in March 2026.
The updated scheme incorporates the Civil Service framework while also including Garda-specific provisions. Delegates welcomed the development, with the National Executive confirming that a full breakdown of the scheme will be shared with members in the near future.
Recognising Excellence in Community Policing
Sgt Emer Lamon was announced as the recipient of the 2025 AGSI Excellence Award in recognition of her exceptional community policing work in Tallaght.
She was praised for her dedication, compassion, and commitment to supporting local families and young people. Sgt Lamon was also recognised for her ongoing work with Little Blue Heroes and was recently named Tallaght Person of the Year.
Conference Motions and Delegate Engagement
Across the conference, delegates debated 13 motions covering a wide range of operational, welfare, and organisational matters affecting AGSI members.
The discussions reflected strong engagement from delegates, with many contributions focused on improving supports for members, strengthening operational procedures, and ensuring fair treatment across the organisation.
The level of participation throughout the conference demonstrated the commitment of AGSI representatives to advocating for meaningful reform and constructive change.
Media Coverage
We had 12 members of the media attend our conference from all national media outlets across TV, Radio, Print and Online. Here is a sample of the extensive coverage received.
- RTE Morning Ireland: https://www.rte.ie/radio/radio1/clips/22596886/
- Newstalk Breakfast: https://www.goloudnow.com/podcasts/newstalk-breakfast-44/calls-for-independent-oversight-of-garda-suspensions-581235
- RTE News: https://www.rte.ie/news/ireland/2026/0331/1566008-agsi-gardai/
- Irish Times: https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/2026/03/30/minister-and-commissioner-to-face-criticism-at-agsi-conference-over-garda-suspensions/
- TheJournal.ie: https://www.irishtimes.com/crime-law/2026/03/30/minister-and-commissioner-to-face-criticism-at-agsi-conference-over-garda-suspensions/
- Irish Sun: https://www.thesun.ie/news/16750995/gardai-abuse-family-ireland-online-conference/
- Irish Examiner: https://www.irishexaminer.com/news/arid-41818847.html
- Irish Independent: https://www.independent.ie/irish-news/law-needs-to-be-changed-to-raise-criminal-threshold-for-gardai-involved-in-accidents-while-on-duty-says-garda-commissioner/a1727129082.html
- Irish Mirror:https://www.irishmirror.ie/news/irish-news/crime/gardai-call-addresses-officers-charged-36939801
Looking Ahead
As delegates departed Westport following three days of discussion and debate, there was a clear sense that this year’s conference represented more than just an annual gathering. It reflected a growing determination among AGSI members to shape the future of policing through collaboration, advocacy, and meaningful reform.
With strong engagement from delegates, constructive dialogue with leadership, and important agreements secured, the 2026 AGSI Annual Delegate Conference delivered a powerful message, the momentum for change has begun.
