FG appeals to gardaí to reconsider strike ballot move

Fine Gael has appealed to rank and file members of the Garda Síochána to rethink their decision to ballot for strike action.

The Garda Representative Association has announded it is to conduct a ballot of its members in response to public sector pay cuts.

Both the Justice Minister and the Garda Commissioner have warned the GRA that gardaí could face criminal or civil charges if they withdraw their labour.

The result of the ballot is due after Christmas.

Fine Gael's Justice Spokesman Charlie Flanagan said a strike by gardai is just "unthinkable".

"The Gardaí as a police force are in a privileged position in Irish society," Deputy Flanagan said.

"Any suggestion that they go on strike is unthinkable in modern democracy."