New overtime policy for Gardaí 'a disaster waiting to happen' – Cahill

Fianna Fáil TD for Tipperary, Jackie Cahill has hit out at a new policy by the senior management of An Garda Síochána that would centralise all overtime decision making capacity in Dublin.

Deputy Cahill spoke to a member of An Garda Síochána today who raised these concerns with the Fianna Fáil TD.

Deputy Cahill stated that the new overtime policy is yet another “calamitous decision”, following on from the regressive amalgamation of the Tipperary and Clare districts.

Speaking on this today, Deputy Cahill said: “I received some very concerning news from a member of An Garda Síochána today, who contacted me in relation to what could only be described as another disastrous decision by senior management of An Garda Síochána in the Phoenix Park.

“I have been informed that a new policy is to be introduced, whereby the issuing of overtime hours is to be completely centralised in Dublin and controlled by a civilian working within the structures of An Garda Síochána.

“We cannot allow a situation to arise, whereby authority is taken away from inspectors and superintendents on this matter. The centralisation of decision making in Dublin on the issuing of overtime hours is a disaster waiting to happen.

“At a time when we need more resources being put into battling crime, and with how unpredictable events can be for members of An Garda Síochána, resources need to be made available at short notice.

“This is yet another calamitous decision by senior management of An Garda Síochána in the Phoenix Park in Dublin, following on from the amalgamation of the Clare and Tipperary divisions.

“The centralisation of overtime will make it impossible for members of An Garda Síochána to operate with the required efficiency and effectiveness. In my view, it will result in resources not being in place when they are most needed, such as road traffic accidents or at the scene of serious crimes. This new policy must be halted immediately.”