asked the Minister for Justice when the 9¾per cent salary increase for members of the Garda Síochána, granted last May, will become effective; and the reasons for the delay in the implementation of this award.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Garda Pay and Conditions.
48.
The matter to which the Deputy refers has been the subject of proceedings before the conciliation council established under the Garda conciliation and arbitration scheme. Under the scheme the proceedings of the council are confidential and statements about them may not be issued without the authority of the council.
49.
asked the Minister for Justice if he is aware of disquiet being expressed by inspectors in the Garda Síochána with regard to the delay in dealing with their claim for better hours and payment of overtime; and if he will make a statement on the matter.
50.
asked the Minister for Justice whether he is satisfied with the morale of the Garda Síochána at present; and whether he has noted the complaints reported recently on the part of Garda inspectors.
With the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, I propose to take Questions Nos. 49 and 50 together.
Garda inspectors, in common with the other ranks in the force, have greatly benefitted from the improved conditions recommended by the Conroy Commission. Various claims for further improvements are at present being dealt with under the Garda conciliation and arbitration scheme. Proceedings under the scheme are confidential. If any offers made in the course of the conciliation proceedings are not accepted, the inspectors have the right to have the matter determined by arbitration.
As I mentioned in the Dáil some time ago, arrangements are being made for a substantial increase in the number of inspectors. I expect the selection of sergeants for appointment to the new posts will be commenced shortly.
I assume, however, that the Deputies are referring to specific reports which appeared in some newspapers last week alleging that many Garda inspectors were on an unofficial "goslow", particularly in Dublin. The Commissioner has had these allegations checked by senior officers in the Dublin Metropolitan Area and he also consulted the Representative Body concerned, which includes elected representatives of inspectors. The Commissioner has assured me that the allegation is wholly untrue and without foundation of any kind. I mention without comment that the first of these newspaper reports appeared on the very afternoon of the concluding day of the ceremonies commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Garda Síochána and was given considerably more prominence than the report of the ceremonies themselves.