Ardagh: EU Presidency Security Will Hold If Gardaí Strike

The executive committee of the Garda Representative Association will vote on a work-to-rule policy later today. If approved, officers will perform only their agreed terms and conditions during the final months of Ireland’s EU Presidency, effectively halting additional duties.

Catherine Ardagh, the Minister of State for Justice, addressed the potential industrial action on Newstalk Breakfast. She acknowledged the critical role the force plays in protecting the nation’s leadership of the European Union. Ardagh stated that the government recognizes the reduced flexibility this action will bring to operations.

The minister emphasized that security will not disappear despite the change in working patterns. She noted that the Garda Commissioner remains confident in the force’s capability. Ardagh explained that rosters are being arranged specifically to factor in the demands of the EU Presidency schedule.

Ardagh clarified that the force is not reducing the number of available officers. Instead, those working will adhere strictly to contractual hours. She pointed to the Commissioner’s prior notice as evidence of preparedness, specifically citing the suspension of leave between 10th November and 14th November.

The proposed action follows a recent GRA survey. That survey found that 92% of respondents were prepared to take industrial action. The minister concluded that while flexibility will be lower, the Commissioner has prepared the force sufficiently to maintain necessary coverage levels.