Garda pay and working conditions
Lowry raised declining Garda pay and conditions, arguing that financial insecurity undermines morale and effectiveness. The Minister pointed to a forthcoming public pay commission and ongoing discussions about measures such as rental allowances.
It is accepted that the strength of the force is crucial, but what is also very important is to motivate existing members and have them fully committed. To be a member of An Garda Síochána is an onerous and responsible task.
It has its dangers and risks. The pay, terms and conditions of gardaí have been diminished. Many are under financial pressure and struggling to survive. They feel vulnerable because of their financial insecurity. Their anxiety is a significant distraction and impacts on productivity. If one is not happy in one's job, it has consequences for one's energy, enthusiasm and output. Many members of the force are demoralised and, as a result, less effective.
The State needs to remunerate gardaí adequately and allow them to concentrate on their jobs. The difficult role of a garda should be acknowledged in practical terms. The service of gardaí to society should be properly valued and appreciated. I urge the Minister to resolve outstanding issues in respect of pay and conditions and, in particular, to review the pay of new recruits. How can we expect young and enthusiastic recruits to survive on €23,000 per year? A new recruit leaving Tipperary could be posted in any Garda station from Cork to Donegal without a rental or subsistence allowance. This level of salary is derisory, unfair and unjust and should be remedied by the Government.
Comment on this
I agree with Deputy Lowry. Entrants' pay is an issue across the public service and is not confined to the Garda. All new entrants took a reduction in pay. The Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform has committed to establishing a public pay commission. One of the priority issues that it will examine is entrants' pay. This will provide a vehicle through which the matter can be addressed. I understand that the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality's discussions with the GRA have addressed issues such as the rental allowance.
There is scope for these matters to be addressed under the Lansdowne Road agreement. A number of unions, for example, the TUI and AGSI, have sat down, engaged in discussions and reached agreements within that collective framework. I hope that the GRA and ASTI will do likewise so that we can meet their legitimate needs in an orderly framework.