Representatives of gardaí frequently express their dissatisfaction with their current situation. They feel unheard, untrusted, and lacking in discretion. Rather than focusing on proactive policing, they believe their job now revolves around bureaucratic accounting. While appointing a commissioner from outside the force might have been the right decision, it could be perceived as a vote of no-confidence by rank-and-file gardaí. This perception is fueled by the criticism from politicians and journalists who have been vocal about their dissatisfaction. One politician even went as far as suggesting that gardaí should have no discretion at all. However, judgment and discretion are essential in frontline public services, especially in policing.
An Garda Síochána has earned the trust of the Irish people for generations. As an unarmed community police force, it has been a great success story for the State. Opinion polls consistently demonstrate the high level of public trust in the force. It is unfair to make the dispute about the garda commissioner personal. The issues extend beyond him. Generalized criticism from politicians has played a significant role in undermining garda morale. Now, it is crucial for politicians to play a positive role in restoring that morale.
Regarding the recent garda dispute, I found issue with Alison O’Connor’s commentary on RTE’s Upfront. She suggested that there is unconscious bias against Drew Harris among frontline gardaí due to his Northern background and Protestant beliefs. As a former member of the force, I have worked with individuals from diverse backgrounds, whether they were or were not Catholic or Northern. They carried out their duties to the people of this country without any bias. The fundamental question that needs to be asked is why the justice minister, who is the head of the Justice Department, has neglected her responsibilities under the law and to the people of the State. According to the Garda Síochána Act 2005, she has the authority to direct the commissioner on matters concerning An Garda Síochána, and he must comply with those directives. This dispute goes beyond rosters and encompasses various issues related to work-life balance, recruitment, retention, pay, the policing model, and health and safety.
Recently, I had an amusing exchange at a bookshop when I asked a sales assistant where they kept their self-help books. She cleverly replied that assisting me would defeat the purpose of self-help. It made me stop and think about the nature of asking for help in the first place.
The VAR controversy during the Premier League game between Tottenham and Liverpool could be easily resolved. The match should be called a draw, with Liverpool receiving one point and Spurs losing two points to reflect the revised outcome.
The article about an invasion of bedbugs in Paris reminded me of a funny story. A visitor inquired about fleas in a bed at a B&B, and the owner responded that there was just one, which she had killed that morning. The next day, the guest complained about a restless night, and the owner was shocked. The guest calmly remarked, “You should see the crowd that turned up for the funeral.”
It is important to note that condoms do not provide protection against all sexually transmitted diseases. A recent report highlighted the rise in STDs and the concern surrounding the lack of condom use. Some STDs can be transmitted through skin contact, rendering condoms ineffective in certain cases. As Ireland has a higher rate of STDs per capita than the US, it is crucial to ensure that individuals have accurate information about condom limitations.
The ongoing Synod on Synodality in the Vatican presents a defining moment for both Pope Francis and the Catholic Church. The Pope’s suggestion that the church could potentially bless same-sex unions marks a significant shift in its stance. This move toward a more inclusive church is a positive step forward, and we can hope for more advancements during the Vatican assembly.
Brendan Butler
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