| ALL AGSI MEMBERS FRIDAY 13 MARCH, 2020 Good afternoon Colleagues, AGSI attended two meetings at Garda Headquarters today in light of the developing situation around COVID-19. We are facing unprecedented times. The briefings by Garda management centred on contingency planning in order to police an evolving and uncertain situation. This new policing plan (included below) is going to cause significant personal and professional disruption to AGSI members. We, as an Association, fully support our members and will play our part in representing you throughout this uncertain period. We are a membership that has always acted with public safety as a priority. I know we won’t be found wanting as policing measures are stepped up. Some of our members have also been asked to delay their retirement and we acknowledge that sacrifice being made. Garda management have assured us that the lines of communications with Associations will remain open. All operational matters relating to the new policing plan must go through the national COVID-19 Coordination Unit (details below). AGSI head office will remain open Monday-Friday as normal with staff rotating working days. Meanwhile, I, as Deputy General Secretary will be available 24/7 as follows: Mobile: 087 234 1448 Email: antoabs@gmail.com COVID-19 Policing Plan Following the Government’s announcement setting out measures to delay the spread of the COVID-19 virus in Ireland, An Garda Síochána is putting in place the following measures with immediate effect to maximise our operational availability / delivery and ability to support other vital public services. Working Time Agreement I am declaring the ongoing situation as an exceptional event, in accordance with the Working Time Agreement, which provides – “Exceptional event – In the event of natural or technological disasters, attacks, serious accidents or similar events, the gravity and scale of which requires the adoption of measures indispensable for the protection of life, health and safety of the community at large…..” COVID-19 Coordination Unit As previously advised, by Deputy Commissioner, Policing & Security, An Garda Síochána has set up a COVID-19 Coordination Unit in Garda Headquarters. This unit will fall under the remit of Detective Chief Superintendent, Liaison and Protection and will be staffed by the necessary skilled personnel to ensure a coordinated approach when dealing with issues around the COVID-19 virus. This unit is based in the Schengen Building, Garda Headquarters and has responsibility for An Garda Síochána overall strategic response to the COVID-19 virus, including the provision of updates to all personnel. The unit will operate on a 24 hour basis seven (7) days a week. Any queries or concerns you may have should be channelled to this unit. The contact details are as follows; Phone; (01) 666 0590 Rosters
Annual Leave
Garda College
Garda Headquarters
Severance Package
Compulsory Retirement
Official Foreign Travel
Large Gatherings / Meetings
Transportation
Legislation
Prisoners / Arrests / Detentions
An Garda Síochána will play a crucial role in protecting and supporting individuals and society. Now more than ever we will be called upon to do all that is required to help our fellow citizens and the country. I have every confidence that we will meet this challenge. As this is a rapidly changing situation, further operational adjustments are very likely to be required. The above instructions, will ensure the organisation can and will meet its requirements in delivering business continuity in this difficult time. I would also ask that you all take personal responsibility and follow the HSE advice and guidance being provided. Kindest Regards, Antoinette Cunningham, Deputy General Secretary |
