Michael Lowry (Tipperary, Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank the Tánaiste for that response. It is also fair to say that arising from a trend towards violent disorder and aggression, the need for mental health and psychological support among members of the Garda force is growing and is a big concern. Up to the end of October of this year, €780,000 was spent on providing such support to members. That figure exceeds the entire amount spent in 2021. The figures show that 480 members were referred for psychiatric or psychological assessment, or for some form of mental healthcare, in 2021. Overall, almost €2.3 million has been required to provide psychological support to members of the Garda and staff who have dealt with traumas of some kind since 2020.

The increased numbers of resignations, the relatively low intake in numbers, dissatisfied members who feel unheard and the growing need for mental health support all pose a significant problem. I am asking that a full review of Garda operations will be high on the Government's agenda in early 2023.

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