Garda association lists six ways for next government to increase numbers

Helen McEntee, Minister of Justice, at a Garda Passing Out Parade in Templemore.

A frontline garda association has told political parties that “words and soundbites” over increasing garda numbers won’t solve the crisis in garda recruitment and retention and has urged them to take some specific measures instead.

The Garda Representative Association (GRA) said the parties need to “urgently create a more attractive and financially rewarding environment” to get new members to apply and encourage current members to stay.