Justice minister Jim O’Callaghan has announced the appointment of Paul Cleary to the post of deputy commissioner, following a recent open competition conducted by publicjobs.

Mr O’Callaghan said: “I want to congratulate Paul Cleary on his appointment to this critical leadership role in An Garda Síochána. Paul has served with An Garda Síochána for over thirty years and has held a number of senior leadership roles throughout the organisation.

“He has been serving as acting deputy commissioner for security, strategy and governance since September 2025. I am very pleased to confirm his appointment to the role of Deputy Commissioner on a permanent basis following government approval today.

“Paul has served in a variety of operational policing roles and led several successful serious crime investigations. His outstanding experience will be of immense value to the Garda organisation.”

The appointment of Mr Cleary follows an open competition conducted by publicjobs on behalf of the minister under Section 27 of the Policing, Security and Community Safety Act 2024.

This competition opened on 27 February and closed on 19 March 2026 involving an international search for suitably qualified candidates.