McDowell facing open revolt over garda reserve

JUSTICE Minister Michael McDowell faces a possible revolt from middle-ranking gardaí as they draw up plans this week to oppose the introduction of the controversial garda reserve.

The proposed 4,000-strong reserve force, which will be introduced by September, will be the burning issue at the annual conference of the Association of Garda Sergeants and Inspectors (AGSI), which begins this evening in Killarney, Co Kerry.

Some 23 of the 28 branches in the AGSI have put down motions in protest at the reserve. These range from continued opposition to an outright policy of non-cooperation. The latter would bring the association in direct conflict with both the minister and the Garda Commissioner.