Martin Kenny (Sligo-Leitrim, Sinn Fein) | Oireachtas source

I want to raise the issue of An Garda Síochána and the difficulties there have been in the organisation for some considerable time, particularly with regard to recruitment and retention. The most evident issue we have had in recent days is that of rosters and the problems with them. The Garda Commissioner has said he will extend the present contingency roster until September. This will give space for proper negotiations to occur. There needs to be recognition by the Government that we have a serious problem with our police service. This is with regard to the affordability of housing for people working in the police service and the cost of living. Many people are finding it very difficult to manage and survive. This is reflected in the serious problem we have with retention and recruitment. It is time for the Government to take action on this and to ensure we put the measures in place to recruit people into An Garda Síochána and retain them, and provide an adequate service for people throughout the State. We see trouble in almost every constituency and area, especially in the capital city of Dublin.

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