The Association of Garda Sergeants and Inspectors (AGSI) attended the 54th Annual Conference of the Police Federation for Northern Ireland (PFNI), held in Belfast on May 20–21, 2026.
Representing AGSI at the conference were AGSI President Declan Higgins and Deputy General Secretary Kevin Bolger, who joined policing representatives from across Ireland, the UK, and Europe for discussions on the challenges facing frontline policing and police personnel.
International Solidarity and Collaboration
The conference brought together representatives from organisations including the Police Federation for Northern Ireland, the Garda Representative Association (GRA), the Scottish Police Federation, and EuroCOP.
The event highlighted the importance of international cooperation and solidarity between police representative associations as policing organisations continue to face increasing operational, financial, and welfare pressures.
Focus on Officer Welfare and Resources
A major focus of this year’s conference was the growing concern around officer numbers, funding, and wellbeing within the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI).
PFNI Chair Liam Kelly delivered a strong address outlining concerns over financial pressures and the impact on frontline policing. Discussions also focused on officer retention, mental health supports, and the strain placed on officers working within reduced staffing levels.
Delegates heard concerns that the PSNI Recovery Plan, aimed at increasing officer numbers to 7,000 by 2028, may be at risk due to ongoing funding uncertainty.
Shared Challenges Across Policing
The conference also provided an opportunity for police representative bodies to continue advocating for improved collective bargaining rights, stronger social dialogue, and better conflict resolution mechanisms for police personnel across Europe.
PSNI Chief Constable Jon Boutcher attended the conference and acknowledged the daily challenges facing officers, emphasising the importance of collaboration and engagement during difficult operational and financial circumstances.
AGSI welcomed the opportunity to engage with colleagues from across policing organisations and contribute to important discussions around officer welfare, resourcing, and the future of policing services both north and south of the border.
