Policing review finds drug intimidation shortcomings
A 2025 review of policing in Ireland by the PCSA identified significant gaps in addressing drug-related intimidation and gang grooming. While progress was noted in organized crime disruption and burglary reduction, workforce capacity remains a major challenge.
Why it matters
The report highlights systemic issues in law enforcement that directly impact community safety and the effectiveness of crime prevention strategies.
A review into policing performance last year has highlighted shortcomings in dealing with drug-related intimidation and the grooming of young people into gangs.
The details of the review are in the 2025 Annual Assessment of Policing Performance by the Policing and Community Safety Authority (PCSA).
It provides an independent evaluation of An Garda Síochána's delivery of policing services and progress against the Garda Síochána Annual Policing Plan 2025 and the Policing Priorities for 2025.
The PCSA said that there were challenges in workforce capacity, performance management, and a lack of a plan for children and young people.
The review highlighted what has been described as "important progress" in delivery, but highlighted challenges in workforce capacity and performance management.
Of the 18 targets in the Annual Policing Plan, ten were "on target", seven were "at risk" and one was "off target", relating to community engagement.
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