‘We require recruitment well beyond current intakes’ says GRA president

GRA president Dermot O’Brien has told Nóirín O’Sullivan, the Garda commissioner, that the force needs to increase in size to properly police the country, its Pulse computer system is “collapsing”, and uniforms are not fit for purpose.

He said the force is hugely under-resourced due to 3,000 retirements and also urged her to support gardaí in their pay restoration claim and ensure recruits are paid the same as every other officer.

“We hear all about recruitment and promotions yet hear nothing about the constant flow of retirements and the ever-dwindling resources left on the frontline.