‘Everyone was cagey at first’ – Wicklow’s Garda court presenter retires after three decades of service
The Wicklow PeopleA remarkable career with An Garda Siochana spanning more than 30 years came to a close last Thursday as Sergeant Anthony Flynn received a heartfelt send-off at Bray Courthouse
Sgt Flynn’s last day as the Garda court presenter for Wicklow was on Thursday, October 23, as colleagues, judges and members of the court service and legal profession gathered to mark the retirement of the long-serving garda, after more than 30 years of service to the people of the Garden County.
Speakers paid tribute to his contribution both inside and outside the courtroom. The first speaker was Superintendent Rory Sheriiff. He first thanked Sgt Flynn on behalf of the state and acknowledged his final day, before describing him as “loyal, helpful and gracious”.
Barrister Eoghan Gallagher BL spoke on behalf on the Bar of Ireland.
Mr Gallagher said: “Before he came here, we didn’t know what to expect, but he was a revelation. Fair, and patient.”
He added: “He has been a friend to all of us, and things will definitely change after this day. There was always the odd laugh along the way too.”
Joe Maguire of Maguire McNiece solicitors spoke to the shock of everybody that Sgt Flynn was retiring.
“We are still in shock. We thought he might stick around as court presenter forever,” said Joe. “We hope he enjoys a long life with his family now, and he knows he will always be a friend to everyone here.”
“Sergeant Flynn combined professionalism with pragmatism and genuine humanity, presenting cases with clarity and fairness that earned respect from every side of the courtroom,” added barrister Eamonn O’Moore.
Judge David Kennedy said it was a real disappointment to see his friend finish up, saying: “It is a disappointment to see him go, because he has done a remarkable job.”
He added: “His patience and professionalism have been greatly appreciated. We have had a very good working relationship, and his friendship meant a great deal.”
In a statement from colleagues from An Garda Síochána they said: “Sergeant Anthony Flynn has given over 30 years of exemplary service to the people of County Wicklow.
“He is the essence of what a community garda stands for, living and working in the area as well as being involved in sport in the local community.
“As a court presenter in the Wicklow courts, he has represented An Garda Síochána and the victims of crime with great distinction and always worked in a fair manner to those brought before the court.”
Sgt Flynn brought his long and dedicated career to a close himself by marking the occasion with a few words.
“I enjoyed my time here. There are one or two great memories I’ll hold onto,” he said, as colleagues gathered to wish him well.
“When I applied, it was only meant to be part-time. Gas how these things go.”
He noted that the early days had their challenges: “Everyone was a bit cagey with me at first, but we all developed together.”
“It has been wall-to-wall with cases at times,” he said, adding that support from colleagues made all the difference. “Brendan Maloney kept an eye on me in the early days.”
Today's News in 90 Seconds - Thursday, October 30
Looking back, Sgt Flynn said he was proud of his years of service but ready for a new chapter. “I’m not one bit sorry to be finishing up. I think I’ve earned a break.”
He finished on a light-hearted note saying: “I’ll miss the craic, but I’m looking forward to whatever comes next.”
Garda court presenters represent the force in District Court proceedings on behalf of the prosecution. They manage multiple cases, present evidence summaries, and handle matters like bail, remands, and adjournments.
This streamlines court work and means that many operational gardaí may only need to attend court to provide direct evidence or testimony in trials.