The current policing model has proven to be a complete failure, indicating the incompetence of both the commissioner and the government who refuse to acknowledge its shortcomings. The reintroduction of the old Westmanstown Roster, which was derived from the UK, specifically Manchester, was never suitable for our style of policing. It relies on five manned units, which the garda force simply cannot and will never be able to fulfill.
So why fix something that isn’t broken, according to the frontline officers who have found the present roster system to be effective? The roster is just one aspect of a larger issue within the Garda force. Recruitment and retention problems, assaults on garda members, excessive bureaucracy, and disciplinary overreach are just a few of the serious problems that need to be addressed.
If exit interviews are to be conducted to understand the reasons behind resignations, they should be done by an independent agency to ensure unbiased results. Buzzwords used by potential applicants during interviews may align with the new interviewing model, but they don’t necessarily indicate a qualified candidate.
According to Central Statistics Office (CSO) data, assaults in Dublin have remained relatively stable in recent years, except for last year. However, the specific type of assaults, such as those causing harm, have garnered attention both nationally and internationally, negatively impacting Irish tourism. It’s important to note that assaults occur not only in Dublin, but throughout the country.
Additionally, a CSO survey conducted in 2019 revealed that 70% of assaults go unreported. Pouring millions of euro into overtime pay is merely a temporary solution to a much larger problem.
As someone who has served in the force, I can confidently say that there is nothing more rewarding than a garda actively engaging with local businesses and communities. It instills a sense of protection, security, and pride within the community. Our gardaí, dedicated individuals who have committed their lives to keeping us safe, provide us with a strong deterrent against harm in all its forms. What could be more fulfilling?
Before this policing model destroys the Garda force, it needs to return to its fundamental principles. An Garda Síochána is not a business driven by supply and demand; it is a public service.
Moving on to a different topic, I would like to highlight two lines from Martin Quinn’s poem about the late Sinéad O’Connor: “Never afraid, she spoke her mind” and “Honest and forthright, and above all kind.” These lines perfectly capture the spirit, heart, and kind nature of Sinéad O’Connor.
Seamus Heaney once recounted a chance meeting with Patrick Kavanagh at a bar, shortly before Kavanagh’s death in 1967. Their brief interaction, filled with wit, highlights the poetic connection that can exist between poets.
The upcoming establishment of an Artificial Intelligence Advisory Group by the Government raises the question of whether there will be a traditional interview process or a more casual conversation.
Bees play a crucial role in our ecosystem and could benefit from certain measures during the summer months when food sources are scarce. Providing water by grating an apple and placing it in a bowl can help bees access sugars without the risk of drowning. Our bee populations are under threat, so we should do everything in our power to support them.
Agriculture Minister Charlie McConalogue acknowledges that the Irish agricultural sector is substantial and challenging to navigate in terms of making progress. However, we must remember that we are facing a climate emergency, and repetitive soundbites will not suffice. Urgent and radical action is required from the government and farming organizations to address climate change.
Congratulations to Elizabeth Ndudi, who won the gold medal in the long jump at the European Under-20 Championships in Jerusalem. This achievement, along with Ciaran McDonagh’s national record in the long jump, demonstrates the exceptional jumping abilities of Irish athletes. The Irish reputation for being skilled jumpers is even mentioned in Flann O’Brien’s novel, “At Swim Two Birds.” This talent is something we can be proud of as a nation.
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