Industrial relations/reforms

Garda Division represent the Minister in discussions with the Garda representative associations (representing members at the ranks of Garda, Sergeant and Inspector, Superintendent and Chief Superintendent) at a number of industrial relations fora.

These fora include the Garda Conciliation Council, the Garda Oversight body established under the Haddington Road Agreement and when appropriate, discussions on national agreements held by the central government.

Claims relating to certain terms and conditions of service of members of An Garda Síochána are discussed and determined through the Scheme of Conciliation and Arbitration.

Garda division will represent the Minister’s views as part of this review.

The elements of the review dealing with the structure and organisation of the Garda Síochána and the deployment of members and civilian staff to relevant and appropriate roles are being undertaken by the Garda Inspectorate.

The elements of the review dealing with the remuneration and conditions of service of members of An Garda Síochána are being handled by Mr Ray McGee who was formerly the Deputy Chair of the Labour Court. These elements of the review will also consider the non-binding report of the Social Affairs Committee of the Council of Europe on industrial relations matters vis-a-vis members of the Garda Síochána.

The review is expected to be completed shortly.

In light of a number of developments over the last twelve months, the force is about to enter a period of significant overhaul and change. The recent report of the Garda Inspectorate on crime management has highlighted some issues that need to be addressed and the Commissioner has begun the process of addressing those issues. The role of Garda Division is provide support to the Garda Commissioner for the changes that she is introducing.