Gardaí seek rule change to allow them seek second job

Middle-ranking gardaí are demanding a change in the rules to allow them do "nixers".

They are also calling for a review of the ban which restricts members to working a certain distance from home.

The motions will be discussed at the annual conference of the Association of Garda Sergeants and Inspectors, which gets underway in Limerick this evening.

There are 31 motions up for discussion, among them a call to resist furthers cuts and maintain the current ratio of one sergeant to five gardaí.

Middle-ranking officers also want the introduction of a computer fraud unit in every division or region and are demanding new legislation which would require convicted sex offenders to be finger-printed, palm-printed and photographed after release.

In light of last winter's artic conditions, there is also a call for a review of the current uniform and the garda fleet.

Sergeants and Inspectors also want to see a change in the rules to allow them do "nixers" in their spare time.

As it stands, theyare prevented by regulation from taking up a list of other jobs.

They also believe the restriction on officers with five years service or more to serving 50 kilometres from home should be lifted.