Sgt Joe is upbeat in celebrating retirement

By Mary Dennehy

AFTER nine years on the community beat in Tallaght, Sergeant Joe O’Connor this week has celebrated his time at a retirement party in the local station.

Joining the force in 1983, Sgt O’Connor (below, second from left) served time at stations in Terenure and Celbridge before being promoted to sergeant in 1998.

After this he spent some time teaching in the Garda College, was active in IT developments across the force and was also based for some time in the community relations section of Harcourt Street.

In 2006, Sgt O’Connor made his way to Tallaght and has been based predominantly in the community policing unit of the local station for the past nine years.

Speaking to The Echo, Tallaght Superintendent Peter Duff said: “Sgt O’Connor has given exemplary service to the community here in Tallaght, to An Garda Síochána and the State.

“He has always been a great role model for the younger officers and has a great way with people.

“Over his time at Tallaght, Joe became a well-known face around the community and as community sergeant he supported a lot of public events and meetings.”

He added: “He’ll definitely be missed, especially his wit.

“Joe has a great sense of humour and I think his wit is what endeared him to the community.

“He has a way of lightening the mood and always found a way of communicating with people.”