Tipperary TD Mattie McGrath is accusing senior Garda management of a power grab over a decision to centralise decisions about Garda overtime. Deputy McGrath describes the new policy as a significant blow to local autonomy and also hit out at Minster Helen McEntee accusing the Justice minister of ignoring the issue.
Deputy McGrath wants local sergeants, and superintendents to decide on overtime needs based on local demand. The TD is highlighting that €2.3 billion was allocated to An Garda Síochána for 2024, including a 25% increase in the overtime budget, up to €131 million from €105 million. Despite the budget increase the TD says the new model requiring advance notice of the need for overtime seems to be a money-saving exercise when there are not enough Garda members to provide the necessary service.
In the first half of 2024, the Tipperary/Clare division saw €1.8 million paid in overtime, compared to the €39.1 million disbursed in the Dublin districts. Deputy McGrath is joining with Fianna Fáil Government TD Jackie Cahill in calling for the new policy to be immediately reversed.
