Mr. Martin Callinan:

It is important to acknowledge that for the first time in 40 years we have arrived at a policing programme that will match demand with the availability of gardaí at particular peak or pinch points within the system. Foremost in our minds in these negotiations was the need, given the economic circumstances in which we find ourselves, to devise a cost neutral roster. The essential difference under the new arrangement is that we have five working units rather than four. The benefit in this for the public is that it provides for greater policing visibility, with up to 25% more personnel on the street where that is a requirement at particular times. It is a very useful and valuable development.

The new arrangement does, of course, present its own challenges for the organisation. We are required under the European working time directive to ensure a social or life versus work balance. As part of this, compensatory rest periods must be provided for within the system, which requires careful management. It is a very useful programme of engagement for all our officers, particularly for the ranks represented here. I am confident that it will complement what we are seeking to do in the future in terms of downsizing the organisation and operating without the types of financial and human resources previously available. We are working through a number of industrial relations issues with our colleagues in an effort to reach accommodations. The new system is not particularly easy, but it is in place and functioning. I have spoken to members throughout the country, all of whom are very happy in principle with the arrangement now in place. There are, however, issues that must be worked out by management in terms of the governance of the organisation. The policing footprint for the future will be determined by the success of this new working arrangement.