‘‘A credit to the gardaí and also to Ireland’’: Kildare judge thanks retiring garda for his service

A Naas District Court judge thanked a retiring garda for his service over the past 30 years.

Judge Desmond Zaidan made the comments in relation to Garda Ronan Mannion, who serves with the Naas Roads Policing Unit.

The court was told by Judge Zaidan that Gda Mannion is due to retire within a few weeks.

The judge said that Gda Mannion 'is a credit to the gardaí and also to Ireland.'

Solicitor David Powderly described Gda Mannion as 'a garda full of integrity.'

File photograph: Garda Ronan Mannion.

Garda Sergeant Mary Meade also said to Gda Mannion: "I want to wish you the very best of luck.

"It has been an absolute pleasure; you would never have too much trouble with Ronan!" Sgt Meade added.

Barrister Sarah Connolly also said: "I wish to echo the sentiments of everyone here, on behalf of The Bar.

"Gda Mannion was always incredibly easy to deal with, and him retiring will be a huge loss to An Garda Síochána."

Speaking directly to Gda Mannion, Judge Zaidan said: "You more than deserve it (referring to his retirement). I want to wish you the very best of luck."

A round of applause broke out from the practitioners.

Once it concluded, Gda Mannion thanked the judge and other practictioners for their kind words.

Read more Kildare court stories here.