On Tuesday 24th of April Representative Simon S. K. Tu visited the Garda Training College in Templemore, Co. Tipperary, and was warmly welcomed by the college head and staff. After enjoying a lunch in the restaurant on college grounds, Representative Tu and the heads of staff exchanged opinions on possible future police training cooperation between Ireland and Taiwan.
Representative Tu expressed a deep gratitude to the Garda Training College for arranging this visit. It provided the perfect opportunity to discuss bilateral justice and police affairs in Taiwan and in Ireland, as well as criminal investigations, education and training, and of course, the latest use of high technology within police forces. It is very apparent that there are many cooperation could be done between police forces in Taiwan and Ireland. Taiwan is known for its progressive stance, particularly in technology, and the police force have therefore made full use of the latest computers, information and technology to prevent and control crime as well as train new recruits. It is essential that Taiwan and Ireland learn from each other to enhance bilateral police exchanges and cooperation.
During his visit, Representative Tu was given and introduction to the Garda Síochána, a brief history, and a tour of the Garda Síochána museum. The Irish police system was first established in the 19th century, and during British rule, it trained British and Irish police officers overseas (in locations such as Africa, India, Hong Kong, etc.) The modern Garda Síochána was established after gaining independence in 1922. In recent times, due to a shortage in governmental budgets, there was very little recruitment. However in the past 3 years more than 2000 qualified policemen have been recruited and well trained for security needs, which includes an 8 month training period and 2 years of university studies. The Garda Training College is deeply interested in Taiwan’s development of high technology regarding crime fighting and police education, and believe that Taiwan’s democracy, freedom, progress, crime prevention and teachings are very fruitful and worthy of exchanges and future cooperation.
Representative Tu stands with the main staff members of the Garda Training College.
Representative Tu joined a meeting to discuss the future cooperation between Irish and Taiwan police forces.
Representative Tu visits the famous Garda museum.