GRA led by self-protecting, exclusive ‘old boys’ club’

A major review of the Garda Representative Association (GRA) has heavily criticised almost every aspect of its operation as inadequate or archaic and described its rules and constitution as no longer fit for purpose.

The review by international consultancy firm Ampersand recommended a complete overhaul of GRA structures, after hearing that the regime was one of “jobs for the boys”, operating out of an “ivory tower”.

The report, which included widespread consultation of the 10,200 members, noted a perception that the central executive committee had “evolved into an ‘old boys’ club which is somewhat self-perpetuating, exclusive, and self-protecting”.