The justice minister has promised legislation to allow for the drug testing of gardaí, a day after the force announced it wanted to begin testing in six months.Garda associations and civilian unions
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Industrial relations stand-off looms as representative bodies question mandatory drug testing
The drug testing regime was launched yesterday and is ‘mandatory’ for all garda members. By Niall O Connor Wednesday 2 Jun 2021, 4:02 PM 1 hour ago 5,680 Views 30 Comments
Image: Shutterstock
Image: Shutterstock
AN INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS standoff in An Garda Síochána appears likely as representative bodies have attacked plans for drug testing in the force.
Both Forsa, which is the union for civilian staff, and the Association of Garda Sergeants and Inspectors (AGSI), have questioned the implementation of the measure.
Garda management made the announcement about the drug testing plans yesterday during a briefing about the new Anti-Corruption Unit.
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The Justice Minister Heather Humphreys has said she supports Garda Commissioner Drew Harris over plans to randomly drug-test Gardaí.
Under new proposals, drug testing will start for all Garda personnel in approximately six months.
Gardaí who test positive for a controlled substance will face dismissal and possible prosecution.
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The Association of Garda Sergeants and Inspectors (AGSI) has criticised the move.
Its General-Secretary Antoinette Cunningham said: AGSI supports any initiative that builds public trust and confidence. We recognise that members of An Garda Síochána should be above reproach in the exercise of their duties. For that reason we broadly support the introduction of polices which can enhance these matters.