Pay issues are set to dominate the annual conference of rank-and-file gardaí in Carlow tomorrow.

The Garda Representative Association (GRA) will also vote on a motion of no confidence in the Garda Ombudsman Commission.

Delegates representing over 10,000 gardai from every division in the country will gather in Tullow tomorrow for their annual conference.

The GRA will start a campaign to restore pay and allowances in light of the improving economy.

The association says a series of scandals and 'perceived crises' in the leadership of the force have hurt frontline gardaí, even though the public knows they are not responsible.

The group president, Dermot O'Neill, is also looking forward to a time when the force can be free from direct political control - allowing the Commissioner greater manoeuvrability and freedom of speech.

The conference will also hear a call for a vote of no confidence in the Garda Ombudsman Commission.