asked the Minister for Justice whether, in view of the concessions granted to such persons in the Army and Civil Service, he will now reconsider his decision not to grant an extension of service to members of the Garda Síochána who are holders of the Active Service Medal Pre-Truce 1917-21 (without Bar); whether he will grant an extension of service of at least one year to such members of the Garda Síochána; and whether in view of the considerable delays which have occurred in the preparation and hearing of the new Garda pay claim he will ensure that members of the Garda Síochána retiring at the present time will have any pay concession which may be granted to serving Gardaí on account of this claim recognised in the amount of their pensions.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Garda Síochána Service Extension.
In reply to a question on 3rd April last, regarding the extension of service of Gardaí who hold the Service (1917-1921) Medal without Bar, I indicated that I had already considered this matter in all its aspects, including the treatment given to other groups. Following a full examination of all the factors involved, I decided that an extension as proposed would not be in the best interests of the Force or the general public. I am not prepared to modify my decision in this matter.
As Garda pay claims are dealt with under the Conciliation and Arbitration Scheme, I am unable to give any assurance as to the effective dates of any future pay increases. Whether or not a pay increase is applied to a member's pension depends on whether the effective date of the increase is prior to the date of retirement.