‘Image is Garda chief’s top priority’ say mid-ranking officers

Garda Commissioner Nóirín O’Sullivan is “more interested” in the corporate image of the organisation than the lives of gardaí on the frontline, mid-ranking officers have said.

The stinging attack from the Association of Garda Sergeants and Inspectors comes as the AGSI plans to hold a series of escalating protests - including the possibility of gardaí marching in uniform - pickets and work-to-rule actions in a worsening row over pay and negotiating rights.

The head of the AGSI said they had sent the commissioner the results of a survey of its members, in which 86% said morale was low or very low, but had not received a reply.