Micheál Martin (Cork South Central, Fianna Fail) | Oireachtas source

Every time the Taoiseach says that a desk job, a clerical job or a teacher's job is the same as that of a garda, he does a disservice to gardaí. He shows a fundamental lack of respect for what they do. Their job is different from those of most other public servants. They did not have SIPTU representing them, as did others whom the Taoiseach mentioned. No one else is out chasing subversives across the country at 2 a.m. or 3 a.m. with their lives at risk, or chasing armed criminal gangs who show absolutely no respect for human life. We know that and have seen it demonstrated. Their job is different. It is disingenuous of the Taoiseach to suggest that if they went into talks they would get back their double pay on a Sunday. Is the Taoiseach saying that?

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