Garda Commissioner Prepares Rosters to Protect EU Presidency Amid Strike Vote
Minister Catherine Ardagh confirmed that security operations will continue within contractual limits despite a pending work-to-rule vote.
By Rafael Bailey ·
The Government has confirmed that security for Ireland's EU Presidency will remain intact even if police officers vote for industrial action.
The executive committee of the Garda Representative Association will vote today on adopting a work-to-rule policy for the remaining months of the presidency. Under this approach, officers would perform only their agreed employment terms and refuse additional duties. A recent GRA survey showed that 92% of respondents were prepared to take this action.
Minister of State for Justice Catherine Ardagh addressed the decision on Newstalk Breakfast. She stated that the government is taking the matter seriously because flexibility in Garda operations will decrease. Ardagh emphasized that the force has successfully managed security so far and that the Garda Commissioner remains confident in his team.
The Commissioner has arranged rosters to meet the specific needs of the presidency. Ardagh clarified that the number of available officers will not drop, but those on duty will work strictly within their contractual hours. To manage the transition, the Commissioner has instructed that officers are not permitted to take leave between November 10 and November 14.
Ardagh noted that while the force faces reduced flexibility, the Commissioner has prepared sufficiently for the potential industrial action. The government expects the security framework to hold as the presidency enters its final phase.
