'We all swore an oath to protect this country…It won't be abandoned', say gardaí as strike looms

Gardaí say the country will not be abandoned when they go on strike.

The union representing rank and file officers has announced "a unilateral withdrawal of services" on four separate days in November in their pay row.

However they say 999 calls will still be answered and emergencies will be dealt with.

Garda Representative Association deputy president Jim Mulligan (pictured) said striking was a last resort.

He said: "Contingency plans have to be put in place. We're a vocational group (and) the country will not be abandoned.

"We all swore an oath to protect this country. This decision was not taken lightly. There was a sombre mood when this decision was taken."

The GRA Conference announced yesterday that its members would strike on the following dates:

• Friday, November 4
• Friday, November 11
• Friday, November 18
• Friday, November 25