Happy retirement, Gda Jon

Sabina Reddy, chair of Halverstown NS, makes a presentation to Gda Jon Brien to thank him for all his contributions to the school community over the years. 

Garda Jon Brien will be doing his last shift in Kilcullen Garda Station tomorrow, Sunday 28 September, before retiring after 30 years with An Garda Síochána, writes Brian Byrne. If you're passing, maybe call in and wish him farewell.

As a Community Garda based in Kilcullen for many of his recent years of service, Jon was a familiar figure at many public events and in schools and meetings of various community and sports organisations. He was never known to be without a smile in all his interactions with people. At AGMs of Text Alert, crime and safety talks, speaking with TY students about life choices — and maybe a career in the Guards — he was informative, reassuring, and, above all, empathetic to people's concerns and needs.

He leaves An Garda with a legacy of outstanding commitment and friendship. We wish him every health and happiness in his retirement. Our photos here are just a small representation of his time in Kilcullen.

At a crime and safety talk in Kilcullen last year.

Speaking to seniors about home safety in Kilcullen last May.

With a new shaved haircut to honour health workers during Covid.

Delivering the groceries to vulnerable people during the pandemic in 2020.

Above and below, with a new best French friend during the Kilcullen twinning visit earlier this year.

With Ireland's youngest garda, Ceejay, in 2018.

Meeting the late rally ace, Rosemary Smith, during a veteran car run in 2019.

Talking to Scoil Bhride pupils in 2023.

Speaking to students in the Just One Life programme earlier this month.

A small presentation after speaking with CPC TY students last May.

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