The new Garda Commissioner is dismissing criticism that an insider has been appointed to the role.

Noirín O'Sullivan says has a distinct advantage as she knows the organisation and knows the changes that are required.

“I think that gives me a distinct advantage because I know the organisation, I know the people in the organisation but also importantly I understand and I know the community and I know the things that need to be done,” Ms O’Sullivan said.

O’Sullivan was the sole candidate recommended for the role by a high level committee following a global search and two rounds of interviews with Irish and international candidates.

She says she will implement reforms and changes to strengthen the trust and confidence in the force:

“There’s certainly things we have to do differently, there’s lots of things we have to do,” she said.

“I don’t underestimate the big body of work we have to do in the coming weeks, and months and years,” she added.

The interim Commissioner has today been appointed as Martin Callinan's successor on a permanent basis.