Mr. John Redmond:

This is a trying time for members of the Garda, especially the sergeants and inspectors who I represent. On the one hand, they are tasked with being the supervisors for the front-line operative, while on the other they are also the first line manager. In some respects, the position is a little like what occurred in banking in that the events of recent months have had repercussions for front-line officers who are bearing the brunt of public frustration about what has taken place and what is reported to be taking place. This is very difficult for them to take as they are trying to provide a professional police service and motivate those who report to them. Moreover, inspectors have one foot in the management camp.

It is clear that this is an issue for senior management who, unfortunately, do not face the public every day. From that point of view, recent developments have contributed to further reducing Garda morale, which is already at a very low level. As I noted, those to whom I have spoken about this issue have made clear that they want to get on with dealing with policing on a professional level. By this I mean they want a light shone in dark and dusty corners to reveal whatever needs to be revealed. It should be swept out as soon as possible, albeit not in a rushed or piecemeal fashion.

We have heard references to a new confidential recipient, new inquiries and investigations, the Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission doing this and the Garda Inspectorate doing that. We will be all over the place in a couple of years. The action taken now should take us 20 or 30 years into the future and on the basis the process should not be rushed, although it should not be unduly delayed either.