The Dáil has discussed the current operation of An Garda Siochana in considering a motion put forward by the Regional Independents.
The group are noting current low morale, the industrial action on the part of the GRA and are also calling for Government action in a number of areas such as a mandatory custodial sentence for anyone purposefully causing injury to a Garda, a complete review of the force, an increase in Garda numbers from the existing 13,717 to 16,000 by 2028, reducing the mandatory retirement age of 60 years, increasing the entry pay of recruits to be 80% of Garda pay and that no roster changes are made until a review is completed.
Tipperary Regional Independent Michael Lowry says the current situation with An Garda Siochána one that few would ever have envisaged. Deputy Lowry says the rapid decline in relationships between rank-and-file members and management is disturbing with the row between the GRA and the Commissioner is damaging to the public perception of the force and holds danger for the public interest.
The TD accepts that there is a need to address the structural and management deficiencies in the current policing model. Deputy Lowry outlined the recruitment and retention crisis – fewer than 300 Garda were recruited in 2022, the most optimistic forecast for 2023 is 800 and the target of 1,000 new Gardaí will be missed in 2024.The training allowance of €184 per week is derisory according to the TD who adds that poor pension entitlements for new recruits since 2013 are also a determining factor for anyone considering a career in the force. 150 Garda resignations in total are expected this year – 96 have resigned so far.“Urgent discussions and negotiations must commence to stabilise and restore a vital institution of State” according to Deputy Lowry.
