GRA president calls for end to direct political control of Garda Síochána
Garda Representative Association president Dermot O’Brien is today calling for an end to direct political control over policing.
Some 150 delegates representing 10,000 frontline officers are attending the GRA’s annual conference in Co Carlow - and will vote on 47 motions, including calls for pay rises and more resources.
In his welcome message to delegates, GRA President Dermot O’Brien that recent crises have "rocked" the Force and damaged the morale of frontline members.
He said that the way forward is to separate An Garda Síochána from direct political control, allowing the Commissioner more room to manoeuvre and more freedom of speech.
Mr O’Brien says that would enhance the service’s reputation and the morale of its members.
The Conference will see members vote on 47 motions, including calls for pay and allowance restoration, greater firearms and tactical training and mandatory sentences for anyone convicted of assaulting a Garda.
Both the Justice Minister and Garda Commissioner will address the conference before it closes on Wednesday..
