The Garda Commissioner has stood over his decision not to promote gardaí that have outstanding complaints against them.
The Association of Garda Sergeants & Inspectors (AGSI) today questioned what grounds Drew Harris has to withhold promotions in such cases - suggesting the complaints are often minor or bogus.
Commissioner Harris, who is attending the AGSI's annual conference in Cavan today, said each case is examined on its merits.
He explained: "I want to be absolutely sure that I'm promoting people that I can have faith and trust in terms of the supervision responsibilities that they have."
Meanwhile, some AGSI members claimed that they were being forced to Google new legislation - such as the new Domestic Violence Act which came into effect in January - because they aren't being properly trained in advance.
Shortly after the new laws came into effect, the AGSI claimed none of their members had received formal training on the legislation.
However, the Commissioner said he personally checked their internal system and confirmed that the necessary information is available.
He also stressed that officers who are specialised in the area have received training.
He added: "I think we're well placed to deal with this new legislation - I want to reassure people about that."
Commissioner Harris also refused to clarify the circumstances around an incident at Garda Headquarters last month.
It happened when he was being driven back from Northern Ireland in an unmarked PSNI jeep.
He suggested: "The truth is people don't know about know about my security arrangements because I don't publicize them.
"That's probably safest for myself, for my family and for those who accompany me."
The force has previously claimed there was 'no security incident'.
It blamed a malfunctioning bollard for causing the damage to the Commissioner's vehicle.
