The Garda Commissioner and the Minister for Justice have welcomed the appointment of Paula Hilman as Assistant Commissioner in the Garda Síochána.

The Policing Authority announced on Thursday that she would take up the role after her retirement from the PSNI at the end of this month. It is the first time a member of the PSNI has been appointed as an Assistant Commissioner.

Government approval was required for the appointment, and Minister Charlie Flanagan said Chief Superintendent Hilman would bring valuable expertise to the role.

Garda Commissioner Drew Harris said she would bring more than 30 years of experience across a wide range of policing areas to the Garda Síochána.  

Perspective

Policing Authority chair Bob Collins said: “The Authority is delighted to appoint a person of Paula Hilman’s experience and quality to this senior position in the Garda Síochána. She adds a distinctive perspective to the senior leadership team, bringing a range of different experiences and perspectives.”

This appointment brings to four the number of female officers serving in the ranks of Assistant Commissioner and above in the Garda Síochána.

Rank

The Authority has also appointed Chief Inspector Stephen McCauley, who is due to retire from the PSNI in the coming week, to the rank of Superintendent in the Garda Síochána.

Assistant Commissioner Hilman and Superintendent McCauley will take up their positions in the Garda Síochána in early May.