A serious lack of money in the Garda payroll means the force must shed a large part of its work division.

According to reports in today's Irish Independent, career breaks of up to three years will be offered to gardai, in an effort to cut one thousand jobs. 

A cash shortage as a result of €25 million in cut backs means there is only enough money to pay over 12,000 gardai in a workforce of 13,500.

Senior members of the gardai believe they can not make up the shortfall in garda numbers through retirement.

As part of the career break deal, a lump sum taxable amount of €30,000 will be offered, with a guarantee the job is kept open for the three year duration.

Today's newspaper report is sure to raise tensions among public sector unions as they prepare for the second phase of the Croke Park discussions.

What will have to be considered is public safety and if garda numbers are cut so drastically what the impact will be on society in a time of high crime.