Garda Representative Association Calls Off Five-Day Work-to-Rule Action Ahead of EU Summits

Dublin: The Garda Representative Association (GRA) has called off a planned five-day work-to-rule action during the major European Union summit events in Ireland, following assurances from senior Garda management on outstanding issues, including pay, overtime and travel allowances.

The decision has eased government concerns over security arrangements for the high-profile gatherings taking place during Ireland’s presidency of the Council of the European Union.

The GRA Central Executive Committee decided to withdraw the planned action following discussions between the association’s representatives, Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly and senior Garda management. The work-to-rule measure had been scheduled to begin and continue for five days.

GRA President Niall Hodgins and General Secretary Ronan Slevin held discussions with Commissioner Kelly and Deputy Commissioner Paul Cleary. According to the association, Garda management provided assurances on several issues, including salaries, overtime payments and travel allowances.

The government had also urged the association to reconsider the industrial action, citing the national interest and the importance of ensuring security during the international events.

The GRA said an agreement had been reached on mileage payments for official travel within the Dublin Metropolitan Region during the week. Arrangements were also agreed for overtime payments for officers travelling more than 100 kilometres to Dublin to assist with summit security operations.

However, a separate nationwide public sector strike scheduled for November 12, coinciding with the European Political Community summit, has not been called off.

Garda personnel from across the country are being deployed to Dublin and Shannon to support security operations associated with the EU events.

The operation is being described as the largest security deployment in the history of the State, with substantial resources required to protect visiting leaders and manage the associated events.

Despite the withdrawal of the work-to-rule action, the GRA said its members had previously expressed strong support for the proposed measure. An opinion poll conducted among association members on October 27 found that a majority of Gardaí backed the industrial action.

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