Laois garda sergeant says farewell to the force
Sgt Graham Kavanagh and colleague on duty at the National Ploughing Championships. Photo: An Garda Siochána Laois/Offaly
A GARDA sergeant who has been crime prevention officer in Laois/Offaly for nearly a decade will retire this weekend, after a 31-year career.
A familiar face from the RTÉ television series , Laois-based Sgt Graham Kavanagh will say farewell to the force on Sunday 7 June.
His last public engagement was with the St Brigid's Active Retirement Group in Portlaoise on 3 June, as part of his regular meetings with community groups across Laois/Offaly to give crime prevention advice.
Describing him as a ‘treasured’ officer, An Garda Siochána Laois/Offaly said on social media: ‘On a personal level, he will be remembered as a witty true blue Dub, blessed with the gift of the gab and his commanding presence will be missed around our garda stations.’
Sgt Kavanagh started out on the beat in his native city and served with the West Dublin Drugs Unit, enjoying a varied career working as a detective garda and unit sergeant and moving to Laois/Offaly, where he has held roles ranging from community policing to court presenter in the circuit courts. He was appointed crime prevention officer for the division in April 2017.
In 2023, he made history as the first garda in Ireland to receive the UK-certified Level 5 Diploma in Designing Out Crime from the Police Crime Prevention Academy. He also has a Master's degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice from South East Technological University (SETU) and has been involved in countless local initiatives, including the Laois/Offaly Garda Youth Awards.
An Garda Siochána Laois/Offaly said: ‘Graham has always valued the warm welcome he received from people across the two counties. Whether speaking at a community meeting, visiting a person’s home, advising a local business, engaging with older persons’ groups or working alongside voluntary organisations, he has always regarded community engagement as one of the most meaningful parts of policing.
'His dedication to further education ensured that he has always been well informed and has been able to give communities up-to-date, informed guidance.’
The post added: ‘As he approaches retirement from An Garda Síochána, Graham leaves with a deep appreciation for the colleagues, communities, partner agencies and volunteers that he has worked with throughout his career.
‘Graham will be thought of fondly by his colleagues for his enthusiastic dedication to his role, his professional integrity and his commitment to high standards.
'Graham, thank you for your service, we wish you and your family happiness, good health and success as you start this new chapter.’
