Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

I have not met with any of the Garda representative bodies since 22 February 2013. The Garda Commissioner, whose function it is, under the Garda Síochána Act of 2005, to direct and control the Garda Síochána, has kept me fully briefed on developments as they arise in this particular matter. In fact, the Commissioner has recently met with the executive committees of all four of the Garda representative associations to discuss with them their concerns arising from the recent discussions on an extension of the Croke Park agreement.

While the withdrawal of voluntary service from non-public duty events is a regrettable and unfortunate development, I am informed by the Commissioner that an effective policing service continues to be provided right across our communities. Indeed, the recent successes of Operation Fiacla highlight the consequences of targeted, intelligence-led policing which has focused on the criminal activities of a minority in our society. I am confident that members of the force will continue, as they have for more than 90 years, to provide a professional policing service right across the country.

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