asked the Minister for Justice what results have been achieved by the Garda Síochána consultative council which was set up by his Department in 1970.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Garda Consultative Council.
53.
The consultative council, which was established in February, 1970, in accordance with a recommendation of the Conroy Commission, has had 20 meetings, many of them continuing over a number of days. Since it was established, many changes have been introduced in the Force in pursuance of recommendations of the Conroy Commission and the council played an important part in ensuring the smooth introduction of these changes. The various interests represented on the council agree that the discussions at the council enabled difficulties that would otherwise have arisen to be foreseen and avoided. The council is not however concerned solely with the recommendations of the Conroy Commission. It is also proving to be a valuable means of bringing to notice problems arising in the course of day-to-day administration and in having them resolved through discussion and understanding.
Could I ask the Minister what recommendations the consultative council have made in regard to the delay in payment of overtime to members of the Garda?
The proceedings of the consultative council are confidential and it would not be open to me to refer to what they said.
Good man.
It is not in any event a negotiating body. In the words of the Conroy Commission, which recommended its establishment, it is "a forum for discussion and explanation".
Is he aware of the widespread discontent among the Garda Síochána at the undue delay of three to four months?
It cannot become payable until three months have elapsed so it is quite incorrect to allege that there has been undue delay.