04/11/2016

GRA Calls Off Planned Strike Action

The Garda Representative Association (GRA) has called off a planned strike for today, 04 November.

In a statement, the organisation said it was deferring industrial action and it will ballot members due a new pay deal being offered at the Labour Court. Terms of the new deal include:

• Rent allowance will be restored to new recruits

• Rent allowance will be increased by €500 from January

• A payment of €15 per annual leave day will be brought in from April worth between €490 and €510 a year

• Gardaí will also be paid for pre-tour briefings worth €1,500 a year.

The GRA said: "The CEC will be meeting on Monday next to further discuss the remaining days of industrial action and members will be updated regularly of progress.

"We regret any ambiguity and inconvenience caused to members throughout recent days; but above all we wish to thank all of our members for their solidarity and support throughout negotiations with our employers."

Tánaiste and Justice Minister, Frances Fitzgerald, welcomed the GRA's decision.

"I welcome the GRA's decision to request its members to report for duty tomorrow in order to ensure that a full policing service is provided," she said. "I want to thank the Workplace Relations Commission and the Labour Court for the invaluable role they have played in securing progress in this matter.

"I also want to thank the GRA negotiators and my own Department's negotiating team for their hard work and the commitment they have shown to finding a resolution over recent days."

(LM)

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