The new tech will be used for major surveillance and undercover operations, as well as tracking the movement of suspicious shipments.21 drones have been purchased so far and will be operated by the Garda Air Support Unit.

In response to a question in the Dáil from Tipperary TD Alan Kelly, acting Justice Minister Simon Harris said: “The Garda Air Support Unit is currently conducting trials with a number of unmanned aircraft systems – drones.

“There is an internal working group tasked with examining the wider potential and scope to use drones to assist in various policing operations.

“I am advised that 21 drones have been procured by the Garda Air Support Unit for evaluation, training, and possible future operating us.”

According to the Irish Mirror, a senior source inside the Gardaí said: "The drones will be a big help to us going forward but some high-tech criminals have been using them for years now. We will not be at a disadvantage."

The source also said the drones will provide Gardaí with a discreet eye to monitor the Irish underworld.