asked the Minister for Justice if he is satisfied that senior Garda officers are content with their pay in comparison with the remuneration available to gardaí on ordinary duties.
14.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Garda Employment Conditions.
13.
asked the Minister for Justice the present position regarding the implementation of the Conroy Report; and if he will review the conditions of employment of gardaí at all levels.
I propose, with the permission of the Ceann Comhairle, to take Questions Nos. 13 and 14 together.
With regard to the Conroy Report, I would refer the Deputy to my reply to a question on 18th June last. I have nothing to add to that reply except to say, briefly, that the vast majority of the Conroy Commission's recommendations have long since been implemented. We have moved far beyond the stage where the Commission's recommendations are an issue. The representatives of the force would be the first to acknowledge this, having regard to the initiatives they have taken, and the advances that have been made as a result, during the six years since the Commission's report was published. These advances, as far as ranks up to and including chief superintendent are concerned, have been made possible through the operation of the Garda Conciliation and Arbitration Scheme, which provides means for constant reviewing of conditions.
The levels of remuneration of the highest ranks in the force—down to the ranks of assistant commissioner and surgeon—have been examined by the Review Body on Higher Remuneration in the Public Sector. The recommendations of the body are being implemented.
A claim by superintendents for increased remuneration, related to their hours of work and remuneration as compared with those of lower ranks, was negotiated last year under the Garda Conciliation and Arbitration Scheme. The finding of the arbitrator, who was appointed by agreement under the scheme, provided for increased remuneration in respect of extra hours of work. The finding was accepted by the Government and has been implemented.
I am aware, from claims on behalf of chief superintendents and superintendents, that these ranks are not content with their existing pay. As these ranks have withdrawn from the agreed C. & A. scheme, the claims cannot at present be processed through the scheme. I am awaiting agreed proposals from them with a view to remedying the situation.
Will the Minister agree that the position has deteriorated between the Department and senior gardaí since this question was first tabled some time ago?
I do not agree, and to suggest otherwise is absolutely wrong.