Many organisatons speak of the need for change as one stream of their work programme. However, for the Probation Service, positive, dynamic change has been the central driver to delivering on our role and responsibility to society. By that I mean change driven by need, substance and action not hollow rhetoric.

Irish society is transforming at pace and the social challenges are changing in parallel. I believe the Probation Service is not a removed or distant entity – for us to be effective and relevant, we must operate and behave as an embedded, responsible and responsive part of society.

We are a forward-facing organisation with a proud record. We have a hugely talented and committed staff who care deeply about their vital role.

Therefore, we will ensure that we design and deliver our services to exacting standards. We will employ proven and results-driven practice. We’ll implement world-leading programmes that have been tried and tested.

Change takes on another central relevance when it comes to implementing our work. Ultimately, achieving positive change in the behaviour of offenders is our core benchmark of success. International experience proves, real change in behaviour, is far more likely to come about by first building positive relationships with offenders. That’s the cornerstone of our work for the future.

And that’s not just driven by values. It’s driven by science and evidence; by the need to use the most effective and proven models.

Ireland deserves nothing less.