On 26th November 2010, Garda Commissioner Fachtna Murphy formally launched the book ‘A History of the Garda Boat Club 1954 - 2010’ at a reception at the Club in Islandbridge. The function was attended by a large number of current and former Garda oarsmen and representatives from the rowing fraternity.
The 450 page book, which includes over seven hundred (700) images, details the association of members of the Garda Síochána with the sport of rowing from the Club’s foundation in 1954 to the present day.
Speaking at the reception, the Commissioner said:
The Boat Club has always been to the forefront of An Garda Siochana’s sporting endeavours. Not only has the Club won virtually every title at local and National level, but they have also recorded many successes at International Regattas. The sustained dedication of Garda oarsmen and women has brought great credit to their Club and to the Garda organisation in general. We have every reason to be proud of their achievements.
Sport plays an important part in developing healthy bodies and minds. It also fosters esprit de corps among its participants and enables us to interact with the communities that we serve in a positive manner. There can be no doubt that sport has played a major part in winning the respect and standing in society that An Garda Síochána enjoys today.
I am delighted to be associated with this book. I hope that it will inspire our young members to emulate the proud record of their predecessors and maintain the reputation of An Garda Síochána in the world of sport.
In welcoming the guests to the reception, Assistant Commissioner Dermot Jennings, President of the Garda Boat Club said:
I’m delighted to see the achievements of our club recorded in this book for posterity. We owe a great of gratitude to all the Club members who have volunteered their time to promote the sport of rowing. I would like to thank everyone who has contributed to making this book the success that it is. In particular I would like to say a special word of thanks to Graham Tolan and Martin Mulligan who have worked tirelessly over the past two years in bringing it all together.
