Increased Number Of Gardaí Resigning Over Conditions Says GRA

The number of Gardaí who are resigning due to poor working conditions is increasing, according to the Garda Representative Association (GRA).

The GRA have stated that more and more Gardaí are resigning due to low morale, work related stress, bullying and unfair treatment. 

These findings from the association were published in a report, which was based on the interviews of 40 Gardaí, who left the organisation last year, with the GRA stating that this is "a worrying work culture where bullying, mental stress, burn out, and a sense of vulnerability are rife".

Among those Gardaí surveyed, it emerged that 70% said they resigned due to unfair treatment, 37.5% due to stress and burn out, 32.5% claimed they resigned due to a toxic working environment, and lack of resources, while 27% pointed to a lack of support, and felt vulnerable. 

All former Gardaí surveyed have stated that a toxic environment exists within the organisation.

Tara McManus who authored this survey, says she hopes this will raise awareness regarding the treacherous conditions that Gardaí are working under, and that these issues will be addressed. 

Reacting to this survey, the GRA's president Brendan O'Connor said he was "somewhat taken aback" by the findings. He also added that these warnings must be taken seriously.

Adding to this, secretary for the GRA, Ronan Slevin has stated that the rate of resignations and retirements will only increase, unless action is taken, and these issues are addressed. 

Garda Headquarters have stated that issues raised that are under the Garda's control are being looked at, but that the resignation rate is 1% of the Garda workforce. 

So far this year, 106 Gardaí have resigned, which is close to the same figure for the whole of last year. It is also twice the number of resignations which were seen in 2017.