Those leading the An Garda Síochána need to be free from political control and to speak their minds about how Government cuts are damaging policing, the Garda Representative Association has said.
President of the association, which represents over 10,000 Garda members in a 12,800-strong force; Dermot O’Brien said politics needs to be taken out of policing immediately.
He said rank and file gardaí had suffered the backlash of recent scandals and
eagerly awaited the introduction of the long mooted Policing Authority.
“I see an opportunity into the future, where the separation of An Garda Síochána from direct political control will allow the Garda Commissioner greater manoeuvrability and freedom of speech,” he said.
“In other jurisdictions we see police leadership is able to be transparent and honest about the impact of resourcing, legislation and the impact of political decisions upon their operational capability.
“This is a long overdue development that has the potential to enhance the reputation and morale of the police service.”
Mr O’Brien said it was vital there were strong voices coming from the top leadership levels in the force at this time.
“Recently the Garda force has been rocked by allegations and perceived crises in the leadership and management of An Garda Síochána,” hesaid.
“The authorities have been almost entirely replaced, while some vacancies remain unfilled.
“This has undoubtedly damaged the morale of members on the frontline. It is our members who are in daily contact with the public.
“While the public appreciate and distinguish that the frontline garda is not responsible, the corporate image has been damaged and our members are on the receiving end of negative commentary directed at the organisation.”
On the issue of recession-related cuts in remuneration to Garda members, Mr O’Brien said the GRA was now beginning a campaign aimed at restoring pay and conditions in the period after the Haddington Road agreement.
His association wanted to take a full part in negotiations, which as a staff representative body rather than a union, it has been denied to date.
“This is long overdue; as is our right to directly negotiate our own pay and conditions directly with our employer. We fully expect this to happen.”
The GRA's conference continues until Wednesday, with Minister for Justice Frances Fitzgerald and Garda Commissioner Noirin O'Sullivan set to address delegates.
One motion down for discussion is a vote of no confidence in the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission, which investigates complaints made against gardaí.
