Michael Lowry (Tipperary, Independent) | Oireachtas source

As we celebrate the centenary of the establishment of An Garda Síochána, it is appropriate to reflect on its current standing. Over the past 100 years, members of the Garda have served us with distinction and pride. We owe them a sincere debt of gratitude for their outstanding commitment and dedication. Over the years, the force has developed and expanded. It has constantly embraced new methods and technology. It is in a persistent battle to keep ahead of sophisticated and dangerous criminal activity. Over the past ten years there has been a concentration on putting in place Garda oversight bodies. Many gardaí will say they are now under more scrutiny than the criminals. Members of the Garda are swamped with paperwork and uploading data. More and more, I encounter Garda members who are unhappy, unfulfilled and disillusioned. Gardaí are our front-line protectors. They stand between law-abiding citizens and the multitude of dangerous elements within our society. We need to acknowledge and appreciate their heroic efforts in a tangible way.

The pay, terms and conditions of rank and file Garda members should reflect their primary role in our society. Concerns are mounting about the increasing numbers of gardaí who have quit the force. Worryingly, these figures include some who are leaving before they have even completed their probationary period. When resignations are added to retirements, we have 400 fewer members of the Garda now than we had this time last year. At the other end of the scale, the scant number choosing the Garda as a career is a grave concern. The Government set a target of 800 new trainees for 2022. Currently, there are just 96 recruits in Templemore Garda Training College. Increased resignations and a significant lack of trainees screams of problems within the Garda force.

Decisions by Garda management to amalgamate large districts across the country are now proving impossible to effectively control. As a result, people in towns and villages in Tipperary and across the country are left feeling vulnerable. People are growing increasingly afraid for their security and safety. Fear like this cannot be ignored. We need a greater Garda presence in our communities. We need to return to old-style visibility. Confidence and respect for Garda authority has faded. It is imperative that we take initiatives to revive it.

The ongoing dispute over rostering is damaging morale. There is growing discontent amongst members.

They are united in their view that it is more efficient and effective to continue working their current 12-hour shift on a four days on, four days off roster. To date, their voices and concerns have gone unheard. The growing frustrations of members of the Garda and the escalating fears of the public are not things that can be put on the proverbial long finger. A full review of all Garda operations must be a priority for the incoming reconfigured Government.

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