Derek Keating (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Question 107: To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality the terms and conditions that allow members of An Garda Síochána to formulate an association; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22609/12]

Alan Shatter (Dublin South, Fine Gael)
Link to this: Individually | In context

Section 18 of the Garda Síochána Act 2005 provides for the Minister for Justice and Equality to regulate the establishment of associations for the purposes of representing members of An Garda Síochána, in the ranks below that of Assistant Garda Commissioner, in all matters affecting their welfare and efficiency. An association established under this section must be independent of and not associated with any body or person outside the Garda Síochána, but it may employ persons who are not members of the Garda Síochána. Under section 18, a member of the Garda Síochána may not be or become a member of any trade union or association, other than an association established under the section, any object of which is to control or influence the pay, pensions or conditions of service of the Garda Síochána.