Garda Dylan Hogan
Dealing with traumatic situations can be challenging, says Garda Dylan Hogan*. Yet, helping people in their time of need is rewarding.
Did you always want to join An Garda Síochána?
Garda Dylan Hogan (GDH): I was always interested in it. I’m from a small rural village in Ireland and liked how the local Garda knew everyone and would make a genuine effort to help anyone within the community if they had a problem.
When did you join?
GDH: In November 2017, aged 22. As a new recruit, I went to the training college in Templemore for eight months and, after two years’ probation, was given my Bachelor of Arts in Applied Policing.
Is your work diverse?
GDH: Absolutely. I’ve been assigned to the Road Policing Unit since June of 2025. My role involves dealing with everything from road traffic collisions to escorting wide loads on the motorway to road-safety enforcement. There are so many diverse areas of An Garda Síochána, too, including response policing, the divisional detective unit and the Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau. There’s the chance to do something different.
It was an honour to represent my country,
my organisation and my colleagues
What’s been your most memorable day as a Garda?
GDH: There are so many, but one springs to mind. I’m a member of the International Policing Association and recently attended an annual seminar in Selm, Germany. I was there in uniform with police officers from over 30 different countries. It was an honour to represent my country, my organisation and my colleagues.
What’s your advice for anyone thinking of joining An Garda Síochána?
GDH: It’s a fantastic job with great opportunities and some of the best people you’ll ever meet. You can see some tough things at times: part of my job involves being there for people during traumatic situations. Afterwards, they’ll often thank me for giving them help when they needed it. Helping members of the public when they need it is hugely rewarding. In my experience, the vast majority of members of the public are grateful for the work we do.
*Garda Dylan Hogan is assigned to the Laois/Offaly Divisional Roads Policing Unit and is based in Portlaoise, Co. Laois.
