Garda promotion embargo to leave senior posts unfilled

A NUMBER of senior Garda positions in Cork and Limerick are likely to remain unfilled because of an embargo on promotions within the force.

Concerns have been raised by the Association of Garda Sergeants and Inspectors (AGSI) that the embargo will put the public at risk.

Chief Superintendent Liam Hayes, who is head of the Cork City Garda Division, is set to retire next month.

The highly experienced garda has been involved in a number of high-profile cases, including the investigation into the death of 11-year-old Midleton schoolboy Robert Holohan.

Meanwhile, Limerick’s most senior garda detective is also set to retire.

Detective Superintendent Jim Browne, who is a native of Mallow, Co Cork, has spearheaded the fight against Limerick’s gangs for several years.

During his 35-year career he was also involved in cracking down on subversives.

Meanwhile, there has been an unfilled vacancy in Macroom since Supt Vincent Dugganretired from the Gardaí on September 1 last. He was in charge of policing that Garda district for the past seven years.

Superintendent Martin Shanahan will be vacating his post as the top garda in Mayfield next month, while Inspector Pat Cadogan is set to retire from Anglesea Street Garda Station.

AGSI national treasurer Sergeant Willie Gleeson, who is also based in Cork city, said three inspectors had retired in the city, including one of the most senior investigators the Gardaí had, Detective InspectorDenis O’Shea.

Sgt Gleeson added that seven senior sergeants would also go this year.

“The result of this is that wewon’t be able to deliver a proper service.

“So many people have left we don’t have the cover. We are losing massive experience and expertise,” he said.

Sgt Gleeson said he was aware of 40 sergeants who have been deemed fit for promotion to the rank of inspector but the vacancies cannot be filled because of the embargo.