The implementation plan sets out how the government will respond to the 34 recommendations of a Garda Inspectorate report published in March 2021.

The report found there was no common understanding across the criminal justice sector of the threat posed by corruption, and highlighted the abuse of power for sexual gain as “a major emerging issue in policing across the common law world and beyond”.

Of its 34 recommendations, three were directed at the Department of Justice, one at the Department of Transport and 30 at An Garda Síochána.

The implementation plan, which contains actions to address each of the 34 recommendations contained in the report, has been jointly prepared by the Department of Justice and An Garda Síochána.

Helen McEntee, the justice minister, said: “The vast majority of Garda members serve the organisation and the State with integrity each and every day of their careers.

“The unique nature of policing means it is one which is open to the threat of corruption. An Garda Síochána is not alone in this and this report will help ensure that An Garda Síochána has the appropriate structures and measures in place to guard against that threat.

“Any wrongdoing or corruption within policing damages the integrity and morale of officers and staff alike and undermines public confidence in police services.

“The Inspectorate’s report and our associated implementation plan will help ensure the highest standards of integrity and ethical behaviour within An Garda Síochána. It is also imperative that we develop a greater shared understanding of the threat of corruption across the broader criminal justice sector, and I welcome the work by my Department in that regard.”

She added: “Significant work has been undertaken by An Garda Síochána to counter corruption in the organisation, and to develop a culture where it safe and encouraged to speak up if you are aware of corruption or wrongdoing.

“Clear policies and procedures are in place for reporting and dealing with wrongdoing; professionalism and integrity is taught and promoted right from training in Templemore for new recruits through to each and every rank and grade in An Garda Síochána.

“To support the Commissioner in this work, we have enacted legislation to enable testing of personnel for controlled drugs in An Garda Síochána and my officials are working on supporting legislation to bring this into effect.

“My Department will continue to work closely with An Garda Síochána and the Policing Authority to ensure targets are being met and recommendations are implemented in accordance with this plan.”