New students have enrolled on a training programme designed especially for staff working at the civilian oversight body, Fiosrú.
The Police Ombudsman, Emily Logan, visited University of Limerick (UL) last week, as 24 Fiosrú staff began their studies on the first day of the programme, while a further 22 colleagues are embarking on their second year of postgraduate studies in the programme, which was introduced last year.
The programme was developed by the university’s School of Law in conjunction with Fiosrú, the Office of the Police Ombudsman, to support its staff learning and development. Upon completion of the two-year postgraduate programme, Fiosrú staff will be awarded a postgraduate ‘Certificate in Law Enforcement Oversight’ from University of Limerick.
BESPOKE PROGRAMME
Speaking at 2026 intake course launch, Police Ombudsman Emily Logan said that Fiosrú was “very proud to be investing in the continuous professional development” of their staff by partnering with academic experts at University of Limerick.
“I am delighted with the strong interest shown by Fiosrú’s staff in this unique bespoke programme. Staff from all parts of our organisation are eagerly learning about important topics including human rights laws and standards as well as police powers and laws and procedures related to criminal investigations in law enforcement oversight.
“By developing their skills, knowledge and expertise, our staff are showing their commitment to strengthened oversight of An Garda Síochána. The impact of this course also means that the public can have greater trust in our skills and the services we provide.”
The whole programme, or individual modules, can be taken by Fiosrú staff, depending on their role.
Fiosrú, the Office of the Police Ombudsman, is the independent statutory body which deals with complaints from members of the public where they have concerns about how they have been treated by gardaí. Fiosrú began operating on 2 April 2025, taking over from its predecessor body, An Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission.
