asked the Minister for Justice if he will make a statement on the amount of overtime at present available to members of the Garda Síochána; and if there has been a reduction in the amount during the past year.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Garda Overtime.
24.
The total amount paid in respect of overtime during the 12 months to the end of February, 1974, was £3,785,432. This compares with a figure of £2,358,484 for the 12 months to the end of February, 1973.
I think it is right to add that overtime at or even approaching the level now being worked by a big section of the force must be regarded as abnormal and placing an undesirable burden on the Force. It is not something to be envisaged as a permanent feature. Regrettably, at the moment it is unavoidable.