Ireland's police to spend €22 million on catering for events

Irish authorities anticipate a significant expenditure on catering services and venue hire for the country's police force, An Garda Siochana (AGS), in the coming years. A tender notice reveals plans to establish a 'Dynamic Panel' for the provision of event spaces and catering for Garda members policing hundreds of events annually, including the 2026 Ryder Cup at Adare Manor in Limerick.

Policing events across ireland

AGS polices an average of around 300 planned public and private events nationwide each year, ranging from one-off occasions like the Ryder Cup to recurring celebrations such as St Patrick's Festival. The number of Garda members involved varies greatly, from under 10 to several hundred, with 75% of events requiring less than 50 officers.

With Ireland set to hold the EU Presidency from July to December 2026, the force anticipates policing an additional 130 to 160 events during that period.

Catering requirements

The tender specifies that catering services must provide hot meals, breakfast, lunch, and dinner options, as well as meal boxes for Garda members on duty. Inclusive menus with high-quality, sustainable Irish produce are preferred, with at least 10% of food provided being organic to align with the country's 2030 agricultural targets.

Menus will also take into account reducing fat, sugar, and salt, while increasing fibre content. 'Grab and go' meal options may include sandwiches, fresh fruit, granola bars, crisps, and water.

Panel members must emphasize the quality and imaginative use of ingredients in their menu development, considering price and customer base.

Unplanned events

The Dynamic Panel will also be required to provide catering and venue hire for unforeseen events, such as a high-profile foreign dignitary's visit or an unplanned large public gathering.

Tenders for the Dynamic Panel must be submitted by May 6th.