Sinn Féin spokesperson on Justice, Pa Daly TD, has said that record Garda resignations and missed recruitment targets are symptomatic of Fine Gael’s mismanagement of the Justice system for over a decade.

Deputy Daly made his remarks following today’s Oireachtas Justice Committee engagement with Garda representatives.

The committee heard from the Garda Representative Association, the Association of Garda Sergeants and Inspectors, the Restaurant Association of Ireland and Retired Garda Sergeant Mr Anthony Gallagher.

Teachta Daly said:

“The issues raised in relation to recruitment and retention by speakers are of no great surprise given recent developments. They included pay, conditions and the new rosters. Morale within rank and file Garda members is low and the historic resignations and missed recruitment targets are symptomatic of that.

“The regulations for the Garda Reserve should be published as soon as possible following consultation and the government must look to establish a task force on retention and solve the ongoing issues within recruitment.

“There was clear frustration regarding the lack of engagement by the Department of An Taoiseach in the A Policing Service for the Future process, as well as regarding implementation of the Commission for the Future of Policing recommendations.

“The witnesses were also clear about the challenges faced in relation to anti-social behaviour in and around major cities, including the centralisation of drug services within city centres. Declining Garda numbers have left resources extremely stretched in these locations and a visible lack of Garda patrols have left businesses, residents and visitors worried about assaults and thefts.

“These are all long standing issues, stemming from Fine Gael’s mismanagement of the Justice system for over a decade now. It is clear from today’s meeting that change is badly needed from the Government.”