Dublin: An Garda Síochána has advised its members not to join the Freemasons, following developments in the United Kingdom where similar restrictions were introduced within the police service.
The move comes after a UK High Court ruling upheld a policy requiring officers of the Metropolitan Police Service to declare membership in certain organisations. The London force subsequently introduced measures requiring officers to confirm whether they were members of the Freemasons.
An Garda Síochána has confirmed that applicants to the force must provide a certificate of non-membership in political parties or secret societies, including the Freemasons. Members are required to submit a self-declaration affirming that they are not affiliated with any political organisation or secret society.
Background on Freemasons
The Freemasons are a long-established fraternal organisation often described as a private men’s society. While they operate publicly through lodges and community events, aspects of their traditions and internal proceedings are not widely known. The organisation maintains a presence in Ireland, with lodges operating both in the Republic and in Northern Ireland. Membership has historically included individuals from a range of professional backgrounds, including former members of the Irish and British defence forces.
In December, the Metropolitan Police introduced a declaration requirement regarding Freemason membership. The United Grand Lodge of England challenged the policy in court, arguing that it undermined the reputation of Freemasons and raised concerns relating to human rights and data protection legislation.
The issue has drawn renewed attention in light of findings related to the 1987 murder of private investigator Daniel Morgan. Morgan was killed in South East London in March 1987. A subsequent independent panel report into the case recommended that Metropolitan Police officers should declare any past or current membership of the Freemasons, amid longstanding allegations of corruption linked to the investigation.
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