In 2016, the Policing Authority carried out a consultation process as part of its preparation of the Code of Ethics for the Garda Síochána.

The Code of Ethics for the Garda Síochána sets out guiding principles to inform and guide the actions of every member of staff of the Garda Síochána at every level of the organisation. The Code of Ethics was prepared by the Policing Authority and published in January 2017.

In preparing the Code, the Authority engaged with a number of stakeholders in policing in Ireland through a written consultation process. The Authority invited initial views on the Code of Ethics in April of 2016. Ideas and comments were received from a wide range of contributors, including those who work in the Garda Síochána, members of the public, and statutory and civil society organisations. The Authority considered all submissions received as well as conducting further research to develop a draft Code of Ethics for the Garda Síochána, which was published on the Authority website on Monday 8 August 2016 for further public consultation.

The Authority sought further written contributions in relation to the draft Code of Ethics in September 2016. In conjunction with this consultation, a consultation event was held on Thursday 8 September 2016 to discuss and gather feedback in relation to the draft Code of Ethics. 90 people participated in the event including members of the public, Joint Policing Committee representatives, civil society groups, state agencies, representative associations and Garda members including Garda management. The Authority considered all submissions when finalising the Code of Ethics before the deadline of 31 December 2016.