A STATEMENT FROM EUROCOP AS IRELAND TAKES OVER THE PRESIDENCY OF THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION

A STATEMENT FROM EUROCOP AS IRELAND TAKES OVER THE PRESIDENCY OF THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION

As Ireland takes over the Presidency of the Council of the European Union, EuroCOP stands firmly with our Irish members in the Garda Representative Association and the Association of Garda Sergeants and Inspectors as they continue to raise serious concerns around working time, rest days, rosters and officer welfare.

Police officers understand operational pressure. They respond when communities need them. But operational necessity must not become a reason to disregard agreed procedures or diminish protections that are essential to safe and sustainable policing.

Roberto García Gonzalez, EuroCOP President, said:

“It is disappointing to note the challenges our members from the Garda Representative Association are experiencing as Ireland takes over the Presidency of the Council of the European Union.

Ireland is a signatory to the Working Time Directive

2003/88/EC, enacted in Ireland through the Organisation of Working Time Act 1997, which ensures compliance with EU standards regarding working hours, rest periods and related protections.

We trust meaningful social dialogue between the Garda Representative Association and An Garda Síochána will continue to take place to ensure unnecessary tensions do not escalate during the period of the Irish Presidency.”

A rest day must mean rest.

EuroCOP supports GRA and AGSI in calling for respect for roster integrity, proper process and meaningful engagement.

Those who protect our communities must also have their rights, welfare and family lives protected.

#EuroCOP #GRA #AGSI #Garda #Gardaí