Court bids farewell to retiring Longford garda

Garda Martin McGowan has served in Longford since his transfer to the county in 2001.

At the court sitting solicitor Frank Gearty, speaking on behalf of the legal profession, described the retiring Garda as “very popular with his colleagues, the legal representatives and the public”. Mr Gearty said Garda McGowan is “a very fair individual” and will be “sadly missed”.

On behalf of the court services staff Court Clerk Maggie Curley commended the retiring officer on his helpful nature and assistance during his time as a serving officer.

Inspector David Jordan said: “We tried to take him out of retirement, but he has made up his mind.”

The Inspector said “a better Garda could not be had” adding: “Martin will be a huge loss to us. All credit to him, he will be sorely missed.”

Addressing the court Garda McGowan thanked the speakers for their kind words adding: “It was a privilege to serve in District 9 for the last 21 years. I had many battles with some of the solicitors here, but like football we always shook hands afterwards.”

Garda McGowan paid compliment to judges who sat on the bench during his time of service; Judge Bernadette Owens, Judge John Neilan and Judge Seamus Hughes. He wished Judge Owens every success in her role.

Judge Owens said: “The public need to know how much Gardai put themselves on the line as they go about their every day service. When I look at the length of your service and the esteem with which you are held it is a great tribute to local policing. I wish you the best of luck in your retirement.”