Gardaí consider action on unfilled posts

The Government could still be on collision course with top-ranking gardaí after the minister for justice reaffirmed her view the Policing Authority will fill any future vacancies within the force, even if it means dissolving a panel formed just six months ago.

Senior gardaí are understood to be considering taking legal action over the non-filling of high-level policing and security positions within the force, with claims there are 17 vacant posts at assistant commissioner, chief superintendent, and superintendent ranks.

The wrangle has developed because a panel, set up in May with a view to filling any vacancies, could now be dissolved as the Policing Authority is due to take on all responsibility for Garda promotions.