An Garda Síochána is “not an attractive place to work” anymore, the President of the Garda Representative Association has said.
The latest figures have revealed significant numbers of Gardaí are quitting the force, with 107 resigning in 2022.
Last month alone, 12 retired and a further 13 quit.
"The figures would certainly be in line with what we’re observing in relation to our members and the feedback we’re getting,” GRA President Brendan O’Connor said.
“Resignations continue to be a significant factor that are contributing to the recruitment and retention crisis we’re experiencing.
“[There are] multiple reasons; lack of training, the bureaucracy, assaults on members - all the issues that the GRA have been highlighting on an ongoing basis.”
Mr O’Connor said morale in the force continues to be low and that he expects the figures to increase further by the end of the year.
“Some [factors causing the resignations] are outside the control of the organisation and there are societal and attitudinal changes,” he said.
“But certainly, it is unusual within An Garda Síochána. We believe in the GRA we may hit 150 this year, so you’re talking about triple what used to resign from the job.
“Certainly, we believe it’s not an attractive place to work.”
In Budget 2024, the Government announced funding for 800 to 1,000 new Gardaí and a 66% increase in the Garda training allowance.
The age limit for joining the force has also been increased from 35 to 50.
Main image: Members of An Garda Síochána patrol around Leinster House. Photo: Sam Boal/Rollingnews.ie
