The Garda Representative Association’s planned five-day work-to-rule action has been called off following significant progress in discussions with Garda management.
The industrial action, which had been due to begin today, was withdrawn after a meeting of the GRA’s Central Executive Committee last night.
The committee voted to suspend the action for the remainder of this week after receiving what the association described as significant progress and assurances from Garda Commissioner Justin Kelly.
The planned work-to-rule would have coincided with two major international leaders’ summits taking place in Dublin as part of Ireland’s EU Presidency.
The dispute centred on allegations by the GRA that Garda management had breached working time agreements and become excessively reliant on enforced overtime.
The development follows an announcement by Commissioner Kelly outlining improved overtime arrangements for gardaí assigned to Thursday’s European Political Community (EPC) summit.
In a message to members, the Commissioner said additional measures were being introduced following feedback from gardaí, with the aim of improving their welfare and working conditions during the event.
Under the revised arrangements, members directed to travel on overtime during a rest day that has not been cancelled will receive overtime payment equivalent to their normal tour of duty, up to a maximum of six hours.
The Commissioner also confirmed that outstanding issues surrounding travel time are being examined by the Rosters Review Group.
Additional provisions have been introduced for members travelling distances of between 50 and 100 kilometres who would not normally qualify for an overnight allowance. Such members will now be able to submit claims on an exceptional basis.
Other changes announced by Garda management include adjustments relating to travel payments and late hotel checkouts.
In a message to its membership, the GRA said it was satisfied with the commitments and assurances provided during discussions with management.
The association described the developments as "a number of wins" for members, recognising the work they had carried out during a particularly demanding period.
The GRA also thanked Commissioner Kelly and his team for their engagement throughout the negotiations.
It added: "Most of all, we want to thank the GRA membership for their continued patience and dedication to duty during these intense negotiations."
