asked the Minister for Justice if he will change the regulations governing the wearing of greatcoats by members of the Garda Síochána at certain times of the year.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Garda Greatcoats.
91.
The regulations in question are a matter for the Commissioner. He has informed me that he does not propose to make any change as he considers them to be sufficiently flexible.
Does the Minister not consider it unreasonable that sometimes a member of the Garda is not free to wear his greatcoat, as it is called, instead of wearing a light raincoat, which is very cold? I am informed that the position at the moment is that the chief superintendent has the right to make those decisions in built-up city areas. That rule or regulation should be changed because it is unfair to a member of the Garda to stand at a bank or at any other point on a cold morning wearing nothing but a very light uniform. I am sure the Minister will agree with me.
I understood the problem was that they had to wear them. I understand now that the problem is that they do not have to wear them. However, this is a matter for which I have no responsibility whatever. It is part of the internal administration. The Garda code sets out the regulations. The Commissioner informs me that in his opinion there is considerable flexibility. I have read the relevant part of the code and unquestionably there is a great deal of flexibility. The Commissioner also tells me that he has never received either from the Representative Bodies or indeed any individual any complaints in regard to it.