Garda Shichana
Garda Kevin Flatley, 49, passed away Sunday after being attacked by a motorcyclist in Lanestown
Commissioner Garda (Chief of Ireland Police) Drew Harris asked for a “actual reset” when it comes to road safety.
The death of Garda Kevin Flatley, 49, follows on Sunday while running a speed checkpoint in Dublin County.
Gardaflatley died at the scene after being attacked by a motorcyclist in Lanestown, north of the county, just before 1:00pm local time on Sunday.
The motorcyclist, a man in his 30s, was seriously injured in the incident and was taken to Beaumont Hospital in Dublin, where his condition is described as important.
At a press conference on Sunday, Harris said it was a “deeply sad day for Garda Shichana.”
PA Media
Drew Harris spoke at a press conference on Sunday.
Harris confirmed that the investigation is ongoing to his death.
He emphasized “the dangers lie for those engaged in road police.”
Other injuries
Another Garda member was also reportedly attacked by Clock’s bike and broke his leg on Sunday.
One man has been arrested.
The third Garda was also injured while working last week when he was attacked by a car.
“This is a regular event,” the commissioner said.
“The dangers our members face are extraordinary.
“I will accept the stricter sentences introduced by the government, but this also requires rethinking the real reset of our approach as a society in terms of road safety.
“We know what poses dangers on the road,” he said.
“We are all responsible when we go out on the road. Our roads are busy and not dangerous driving places.”
Gardai has also updated its appeal to information and dashcam footage.
The commissioner said many people came forward, but they were still seeking information on the movement of the R1 Yamaha motorcycle from noon on Sunday, at the time before Garda Flatley was killed.
Ireland flag flying on a half mast at Dublin Metropolitan Regional Headquarters in Dublin Castle
BBC News Ni Dublin Reporter Reported by Kevin Sharkey.
Garda Kevin Flatley, a member of the Road Police Force based in Dublin Castle, is the 90th member of Angarda Siochana who will be killed while on duty.
89 other Garda victims died on duty on a variety of reasons, including incidents related to Northern Ireland’s issues, anti-crime operations and accidents.
The general denominator for all 90 cases was the effect of each Garda’s death on Ireland’s national consciousness.
Today, the Irish flag is flying at half a mast outside the Garda Dublin metropolitan area headquarters in Dublin Castle.
“Inundated” with a tribute
Speaking about RTé’s Morning Ireland programme, Niall Hodgins, vice president of the Garda Representatives Association, said, “It’s a horrifying day for everyone who serves An Garda Síochána.”
Hodgins added that he was “watering on the phone” in honor of Garda Flatley.
He added later Monday, “We all come together with heartbreak to remember our dear colleagues, friends and teammates.”
“He wore his uniform with dignity, courage and pride.”
“Absolutely gentleman”
Garda Flatley and his family were members of the GAA club in Valbrigan, paying tribute to him.
“Kevin was an absolute gentleman who played a major role in playing for our club and was lending his help as much as he could,” O’Dwyer’s Gaa Club said in a statement.
“He is a dedicated coach for the U10 Girls team, always encouraging players and bringing great energy,” the statement said.
They spread their “deepest motivation” to Garda Flatley’s family.
Club Chair Dave Rooney told RTé’s Morning Ireland programme:
Rooney also said Garda Flatley coach. He said “it’s very active in the community and within the club.”
He added that the club will hold a minute of silence and will stop the game to pay respects.
“We’ll support you too [his wife] When funeral arrangements were announced, Una and the family,” added Rooney.
“A terrible tragedy”
Irish Minister of Justice Jim O’Callaghan expressed sympathy for Garda Flatley’s family.
“It was a terrible tragedy that he lost his life in his duties, but it highlights the sacrifices and dangers associated with Irish police,” O’Callaghan said.
Speaking about the incident involving Garda Flatley and other incidents at Clock, O’Callaghan said:
