AGSI: Damage to morale and ability

The body representing Garda sergeants and inspectors has said the spotlight put on the force in recent times has “seriously diminished” morale and demanded that a review of the organisation be expanded to include oversight and accountability.

John Redmond, general secretary of the Association of Garda Sergeants and Inspectors pointed to the focus on the outgoing commissioner’s “choice of words” and said anything that reduced the ability to carry out policing work was a concern. He said bringing at least a part of the matter to a close with the resignation of the commissioner would allow the organisation to get back to what it should be doing — policing.

“The myriad of controversies over the last number of weeks has impacted on public confidence in the Garda organisation,” said Mr Redmond. “AGSI believes that the Minister for Justice, Alan Shatter, must act swiftly in appointing a new commissioner. This is critically important so that confidence and leadership can be provided at this time within An Garda Síochána.