Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

This issue was addressed in the Garda Inspectorate report. There was a great deal of consultation before the new roster scheme came into operation. Obviously, as more gardaí are recruited - and we have ongoing and continuous recruitment - some of the issues the Senator raises will be addressed. The Garda roster scheme is being considered under Haddington Road by Mr. Ray McGee. Clearly, this is an operational matter for the Garda Commissioner and there is also a question of compliance with the working time directive. We have asked for the Haddington Road review to be completed by the end of February. We will see what recommendations are made. It took a great deal of time to get to the new roster but there are some operational issues that have arisen. It may be that changes to some aspects of the rosters may be negotiated which deal with the situation the Senator outlined. There are some real operational issues that have arisen and I have no doubt that the Commissioner will address them. As I say, it is being dealt with under the Haddington Road review.