‘Celebrating the History of An Garda Síochána in Longford’

Launch of book edited by retired Sgt Jim McDonald and local historian Eamonn Brennan

Longford County Council is delighted to announce the launch of a book entitled ‘Celebrating the History of An Garda Síochána in Longford’ at 7.30 pm on Wednesday, 21 June in Edgeworthstown Community Library.

The book, which is edited by Jim McDonald, retired Sergeant, who served in Longford for many years, and local historian Eamonn Brennan, will be launched by local historian David Leahy, whose father, Maurice, also a retired Garda Sergeant, features in it. Proceeds from sales will go to County Longford Hospice Homecare. The launch is open to all.

The book looks at the early history of An Garda Síochána and the establishment of the force in the county. It includes articles on several members who were based in Longford over the past 100 years and a wonderful selection of photographs reflecting the varied work of the Gardaí.

Its publication is part of the programme to celebrate the centenary of the Gardaí in County Longford, which was organised by a committee composed of serving and retired members, chaired by current Garda Superintendent Seamus Boyle.

The project is supported by Longford County Council, with funding from the Decade of Centenaries Programme. Additional financial assistance was provided by the Longford Branch of the Garda Síochána Retired Members Association, Longford Courts Service and St Raphael’s and St Paul’s Garda Credit Unions.

Cathaoirleach of Longford County Council, Cllr Turlough McGovern, is enthusiastic about the book. “I welcome this book and know that many people have been waiting for its publication. It is a wonderful account of the Gardaí in Longford over the past century and will be enjoyed by all.”

Paddy Mahon, Chief Executive of Longford County Council, spoke of its long-term value. “The book is an important record of the history of An Garda Síochána locally and I have no doubt that it will used as such by people with an interest in the subject for many years to come.”

Superintendent Seamus Boyle is delighted that the book is being published. “This book is one of the major parts of our centenary programme and I sincerely thank the editors, Jim McDonald and Eamonn Brennan for their work on it. I also thank all of those who contributed articles to it”, he concluded.

The book is selling for €15 and will be available in outlets throughout the county.