GALLERY: Centenary of Garda Siochana marked at Kells station event

Kells Garda District marked the centenary of the founding of An Garda Siochana with a celebration at Kells Garda Station on Saturday where Superintendent Bláthín Moran and Chief Superintendent Fergus Healy were delighted to have Minister for Justice, Helen McEntee, and Meath CountyCouncil cathaoirleach, Sean Drew, in attendance, along with guest speakers Dr Liam McNiffe, historian, and retired garda Peter Kenny.

Retired and serving members along with representatives from local groups in Kells and local Little Blue Heros Willow Mae Carroll and Milo Poblocki were also in attendance.

The event began with a short service by Fr David Bradley, PP, Kells, and Rev Marion Keating, followed by guest speakers and a presentation to the centenary colouring competition winners, Aodhán O’Reilly and Holly Nic Cormaic.

Kells Silver Band provided the music and Kells Garda staff served up the refreshments and treats after the event. There was a display of old and new uniforms which were brought down from the Garda Museum, along with photographs and memorabilia throughout Kells Station, many of which were gathered by retired garda Peter Kenny. Kells Superintendent Bláithín Moran said: "Saturday was a very important day for Kells Garda District, it was a day to recognise our organisation’s history and its people. An Garda Síochána – meaning ‘guardians of the peace’ is as relevant today as it was 100 years ago."