AGSI publishes insights from Sergeants and Inspectors
The Association of Garda Sergeants and Inspectors (AGSI) has released the findings of its recent member questionnaire, shedding light on significant dissatisfaction amongst the supervisory ranks of An Garda Siochana with the current Garda Operating Divisional Model. The Operating Model is the new Divisional system and structure of policing introduced into An Garda Síochána arising from the Commission of the Future of Policing report.
The questionnaire, which garnered a 56% response rate from 2,300 members canvassed, highlights critical issues affecting Frontline policing, Resource adequacy, and Community impact.
Key Findings from the Survey
- Resource Challenges: Almost 96% of respondents believe there are insufficient Garda members to meet service requirements amongst the Garda Divisions under the current Operating Model.
- Community Policing Concerns: 82% of Sergeants and Inspectors who responded to the questionnaire indicated that the operating model did not have a positive impact on Community Policing. In regard to rural policing and high visibility policing over 90% of respondents indicated that High Visibility Policing has not increased since the introduction of the Model and that the Operating Model is unsuitable for rural Policing.
- Size of Garda Divisions: An overwhelming 98% of members reported that the Three-County Garda Divisional Model is not working effectively.
- Call for Review: A near-consensus, 98% of respondents called for an urgent review of the Operating Model.
The general consensus amongst the AGSI membership is that the Garda Operating Model lacks uniformity, clarity and consistency throughout the An Garda Siochana and its introduction has not brought any improvement surrounding efficiencies.
Commenting on the findings, AGSI General Secretary Ronan Clogher said:
“This survey provides a powerful insight into the lived experiences of our members on the ground. The overwhelming message is clear: the current Operating Model is not delivering for Garda members or the communities they serve.
“Issues such as inadequate resources, the lack of suitability for rural and frontline policing, and the inefficiency of the three-county divisional structure are deeply concerning.
“The results of this questionnaire underline an urgent need for a comprehensive review to address these systemic issues.”
A Path Forward
The AGSI has regularly highlighted the difficulties experienced and concerns around the suitability of the Operating Model as a structure of Policing within this jurisdiction since its introduction.
In May 2024 following numerous requests from this Association, Garda management conducted a survey of all members of An Garda Síochána and Garda staff surrounding the Operating Model. Despite numerous requests by this Association to Garda Management to release the results of that survey, Garda Management has failed to release the results or take any action to rectify issues identified in that survey. This has now resulted in the AGSI having to conduct a questionnaire of the AGSI membership.
AGSI is urging the Department of Justice and Garda management to take immediate action to review the Operating Model and engage with AGSI and frontline Gardaí to develop a viable and sustainable policing structure that meets the needs of both members and the public.
