Frontline supervisor shortage a ‘challenge’ for force

Shortages of frontline supervisors are causing a “considerable challenge” for An Garda Síochána, according to the Garda Commissioner.

The commissioner’s February report to the Policing Authority said that having a sufficient number of sergeants and inspectors is “crucial” in ensuring Garda members, including the growing number of new recruits, are properly monitored and guided.

It also said the organisation needs an extra €4 million to implement keys parts of the force’s flagship modernisation programme, including a new performance appraisal system, the Code of Ethics and roll out of divisional specialist units to deal with sexual and domestic crimes.