Claims that they had been victimised and singled out for special treatment failed to impress. But there was no doubting the rebellious atmosphere at the annual gathering of the Association of Garda Sergeants and Inspectors. Members gave the silent treatment to Minister for Justice Alan Shatter and sought support and understanding from Garda Commissioner Martin Callinan. Opposition to changes in working conditions and allowances dominated the conference. The situation is volatile and will require careful handling.
Mr Shatter’s decision to lecture his hosts on their Croke Park negotiating tactics and obstructive behaviour was guaranteed to annoy. The leadership of both Garda associations had done their members a serious disservice, he insisted. They appeared to believe that by behaving as some sort of protest movement, they were acting in the best interests of the force. Had they remained at the talks, he said, they could have secured benefits for their members.
With a frosty reception guaranteed, the Minister may have felt confrontation and straight talking was the best approach. That way, there was less chance of future misunderstandings. Some members walked out in protest while others sat in silence. The degree of alienation between the association and the Minister came into stark focus when he was accused of “telling lies” about station closures.
While Mr Shatter was dealing with sergeants and inspectors, the Taoiseach was being upbraided on the hustings by an off-duty garda. Again, a sense of unfairness came through. The garda complained he wasn’t responsible for the economic crash, but was being asked to pay for it. A similar position has been adopted by other frontline groups. But demands for absolute exemptions are untenable. Savings of €1 billion are required over three years and all public servants should make a contribution. Otherwise, a deal will not hold. As Mr Kenny asked the protesting garda: “Who do you think is going to pay for the services?”
Claims of victimhood go down well at association meetings but the reality is that gardaí are relatively well paid compared to their colleagues overseas and public servants at home. Their concern that Mr Callinan tends to "take the Government side" over policing issues and reform of the force is wrong-headed. It is Mr Callinan's duty to ensure that limited manpower and resources are used in the most effective fashion. In regard to the closure of stations, he is following independent advice from the Garda Inspectorate that supports a freeing- up of manpower in this way. He is not, and should not become, a mouthpiece for representative bodies. To clear the air, a fundamental review of the role of the Garda Síochána should be undertaken.
