Garda Commissioner Fachtna Murphy has ordered a root-and-branch review of Garda training as part of the force's efforts to respond to changing demographics and crime trends.
It is the first review of its kind since the Walsh training report in the mid-1980s.
The new review will examine ways to improve Garda training and enhance continuous learning and career development.
Mr Murphy has established a working group to carry out the review. It is made up of senior Garda officers, Government officials and figures from the private and public sector.
It will report by November, and its findings and recommendations will be published.
The group will also make recommendations on training and development for civilian personnel.
Mr Murphy said it was vital that Garda training was in line with international best practice. Many changes had already been introduced, including enhanced probationary and specialist training and a leadership programme for senior officers.
The review represented an opportunity to reflect on these developments and identify the policing challenges posed by Ireland's "changing society".
"We can then renew and reinvigorate our training and development programme to ensure that we can meet those challenges effectively, and deliver a service which respects the rights and requirements of both the community and the individual.
"It is important that we are in the best possible position to work closely with communities, deal with their problems and respond to their needs," said Mr Murphy
The review comes after a period of major change for An Garda Síochána.
Last year saw the launch of the Garda Ombudsman Commission, the first independent body established to investigate complaints against gardaí.
The Garda Inspectorate has also been introduced. It has already made recommendations about giving members better training and equipment to deal with violent incidents, particularly those involving firearms.
Gardaí are also facing new challenges related to the growing and increasingly multinational population, from cybercrime, gangs and transnational crime.
The new working group will be chaired by Pat McLoughlin, the former deputy chief executive of the HSE. Chief Supt Jack Nolan has been appointed secretary.
The group's other members are: Mary Twomey, head of group strategic human resources, AIB; Séamus Puirséil, CEO Higher Education and Training Awards Committee; Prof Bairbre Redmond, senior lecturer of applied social science, UCD; Michael Flahive, assistant secretary, Department of Justice; Deputy Commissioner Martin Callinan; Assistant Commissioner Louis Harkin; Jim O'Farrell higher principal officer, Department of Finance; Alan Mulligan, director of the Garda's civilian human resources.