“Common sense has prevailed” in the Garda roster dispute, the GRA has said.

Following months of negotiation, the GRA National Executive yesterday endorsed an agreement drawn up between themselves and Garda Commissioner Drew Harris.

Now, rank and file Gardaí will be balloted on whether to accept it.

Speaking on Newstalk Breakfast, GRA President Brendan O’Connor said he is satisfied with the agreement is fair and balanced. 

“A document has emerged from the process we were involved in which has our support as a negotiating team,” he said. 

“We presented that to our National Executive yesterday - who endorsed it - and that will now go to a ballot of our membership. It’s fairly reflective of the GRA rosters that we proposed and that we’re working [with] as an interim measure.

“It’s four days on, recovery day and then three rest days for what’s termed as the core units. 

“Then, our non-core units will maintain a 10 hour shift pattern with six days, then a recovery day and then three days off.” 

Garda Commissioner Drew Harris. Credit: Athlone Photography/Alamy Live News

During the pandemic, Gardaí were rostered for four days of 12 hour shifts, followed by a four day break. 

Gardaí hoped the schedule could be made permanent but Commissioner Harris felt the system was too costly and meant less Garda working hours overall. 

In September, Gardaí voted overwhelmingly no confidence in Commissioner Harris and announced they would no longer work voluntary overtime on a number of dates.

Mr O’Connor said much of the dispute between the two sides came down to Commissioner Harris’ desire for some Gardaí to work eight hour shifts. 

“We argued that [should] not be the case,” he said. 

“We negotiated with the Garda Commissioner under the auspices of an independent facilitator and chair which led to this document which, we believe, is the basis of a positive move forward and will put this issue to bed. 

“Providing our members accept it.” 

New Gardaí at an Attestation Ceremony at the Garda Training College, Templemore. Image: Mark Condren/RollingNews

Mr O’Connor acknowledged that Commissioner Harris will view the agreement as “not ideal” but said there is “no perfect roster” for Gardaí. 

“Common sense has prevailed and we found a balance between the needs of the organisation and the needs of society and how it impacts on our members,” he said. 

“Certainly, we haven’t achieved something that will deplete service and reduce visibility.” 

Justice Minister Helen McEntee has previously said boosting Garda numbers is a "priority" for her Department.

Main image: Gardaí on patrol in rain in Glenties, County Donegal.