Justice Minister 'absolutely open' to holding talks with garda officials

Justice Minister Frances Fitzgerald is "absolutely open" to holding talks with garda officials in order to prevent unprecedented strike action that risks leaving the public defenceless in just six weeks' time writes Political Correspondent Fiachra O'Cionnaith.

The Tánaiste outlined her position as she was urged by the opposition to avoid a damaging "Mexican stand-off" that will put the safety of communities in jeopardy and cause havoc across the country.