Capturing Our History is an oral history project, undertaken by the Garda Síochána Retired Members Association, to mark the centenary of the founding of An Garda Síochána in 1922. The purpose of the project is to record stories and recollections that will help to tell the story of An Garda Síochána across the last century, in the voices of the men and women who were there
THE COLLECTION
Almost 100 oral history interviews have been recorded to date. As a result of the COVID-19 Pandemic, interviews were undertaken both remotely and face to face, as appropriate. Although primarily audio, the Capturing Our History archive contains a range of formats, including born digital, analog cassettes, images and scanned deposit forms.
The project is undertaken according to best practice standards of oral history, including ethical, consent and data protection. Training was undertaken with Regina Fitzpatrick of the Oral History Network of Ireland. In addition, an experienced oral historian, Dr Tomás Mac Conmara was commissioned to act as Advisor to the project, to ensure all expected standards were met.
WHY AN ORAL HISTORY?
As an oral history, this project illuminates the human experience of An Garda Síochána and the role the force has played over the last century. The personal lives, backgrounds and experiences of policemen and women are documented, as well many landmark occasions in modern Irish history, whether traumatic or celebratory. The presence of An Garda Síochána across the country over the last 100 years, results in a depth of experience which is critical to the history of Ireland.