Colm Keaveney (Galway East, Fianna Fail)
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140. To ask the Minister for Justice and Equality her views that the morale of An Garda Síochána ought to be of concern to her and her Department; if she has received any report, formal or informal, on the state of morale within An Garda Síochána; if not, the steps she will take to ascertain the current morale of the force; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [9647/15]

Frances Fitzgerald (Dublin Mid West, Fine Gael)
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I have been informed by the Garda Commissioner that An Garda Síochána does not commission surveys on the state of morale within the organisation, however management at all levels continuously address issues affecting members under their command.

Garda management has a responsibility for creating a climate in which people are highly motivated. Accordingly, the issue of morale is continuously managed and addressed accordingly by Senior Management. There is a comprehensive peer support and employee assistance service in place, to ensure support for all staff members.

Currently, An Garda Síochána is undertaking an extensive transformation programme following consultation with all staff in the organisation. In addition, the recent recruitment programme will help to invigorate An Garda Síochána and will allow for the allocation and movement of members which will impact positively on An Garda Síochána.

Recent promotions, and the current promotion competition for promotion to Sergeants and Inspector rank, motivate personnel, creates movement and increases morale.