Garda group's concerns over policing EU Presidency

The Garda Representative Association (GRA) has voiced significant concerns regarding the policing of Ireland's upcoming EU Presidency, a period expected to place immense strain on already stretched resources. As reported by RTÉ News, the GRA fears that a lack of adequate personnel may necessitate declaring the event an 'exceptional policing event,' mirroring the recent situation during fuel protests where all annual leave and rest days were cancelled. This highlights a systemic issue of under-resourcing within the Garda Síochána, impacting their ability to manage major national and international events.

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All annual leave and rest days were cancelled to ensure there were sufficient gardaí to police the fuel protests (file pic Collins)

Further compounding these concerns are issues surrounding the recruitment and vetting process. The GRA points to a worrying trend where candidates are failing vetting late in their training, raising questions about the integrity of the process and the potential compromise of sensitive information. This situation demands urgent attention to ensure that only thoroughly vetted individuals are entrusted with policing duties, especially given the sensitive nature of the upcoming presidency events and the increasing threats faced by officers, such as the AI-altered photograph and online threats directed at a Garda in Waterford.

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Rank and file gardaí say they are concerned they will not have sufficient resources to police the forthcoming EU Presidency and that the Commissioner may have to declare it an exceptional policing event.

On a more positive note, the GRA has expressed strong support and pride following the arrest of Daniel Kinahan in Dubai. This development is seen as a significant achievement, particularly for officers who have dedicated years to policing the Hutch-Kinahan feud. The association paid tribute to the late Assistant Commissioner John O’Driscoll for his pivotal role in the investigation, acknowledging the difficult journey from 'despair to repair' for both the Gardaí and the communities affected. This sentiment reflects a sense of vindication and hope for the future under the new Garda management team.

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We want garda vetting of all new recruits to be completed before admission.