Chief Superintendent Johanna O’Leary (pictured) is to head up the new Garda anti-corruption unit, taking office immediately.

She will have responsibility for establishing the unit, and developing policies, procedures and legislative provisions. She will report to the Assistant Commissioner for governance and accountability.

The unit is to be fully operational by year-end.

Chief Superintendent Johanna O’Leary was previously assigned to the Westmeath division, and has served less than one month in that role.

In addition, Chief Superintendent Brian Sutton has transferred to Special Tactics and Operations Command (STOC), while Chief Superintendent Denis Ferry has moved to the Wexford Garda Division.

Information leaks

Garda Commissioner Drew Harris has said the unit will investigate drug-use allegations, information flowing externally, and inappropriate association with criminals.

Stamped out

He said the organisation is determined that any corruption will be “stamped out”. 

Three members of An Garda Síochána were arrested last May as part of an ongoing corruption probe. A superintendent was arrested on suspicion of passing on classified information.