One of the garda whistleblowers says he has yet to see any change in force culture since the tapes and GSOC controversies.

It comes ahead of a three day meeting of middle ranking gardaí in Co. Kerry, which is expected to discuss calls for more protection for whistleblowers.

At the AGSI conference, 23 motions will be discussed - including a call to have the garda confidential reporting charter reviewed and revised - to make it more robust in protecting whistleblowers in the force.

Garda whistleblower John Wilson told Newstalk's Breakfast a major cultural shift has yet to happen, while more claims of irregularities are being brought to his attention:

Meanwhile, the head of the AGSI says he would describe garda whistleblowers as brave, committed and strong.

Minister won't attend

This year will mark the first time the Justice Minister hasn't addressed the AGSI event.

Justice Minister Alan Shatter is thought to be unavailable because the event clashes with the Jewish festival of Passover.

General Secretary John Redmond says his members are disappointed:

Other issues for debate at the AGSI conference include pay, pensions and allowances, as well as training and the duties and responsibilities of middle-ranking officers.