A third of people have no confidence in the Gardai to bring criminals to justice, according to a new opinion poll.
The poll, in the Sunday Independent, also found that young people are even more sceptical about the force’s ability to tackle crime.
Only 50% of 18-to-24-year-olds have confidence in the Gardai.
However, the figure does rise substantially as people get older, 80 % of over 65-year-olds have confidence.
Garda Commissioner Pat Byrne is insisting he is not surprised by the poll result. He says young people generally have more conflict with institutions, while older people tend to be property owners.
He also says that the poll should not just be taken as a reflection on the Gardai as the DPP and the courts also have a role to play in bringing people to justice.