THE RATE of Garda retirements has accelerated with some 708 members of the force retiring so far this year compared to 243 last year and 177 in 2007, it has emerged.
The increase is being attributed to fears that tax-free gratuity sums paid to Garda members on retirement will be taxed in the forthcoming budget.
Many retiring early are also unhappy at the imposition of income and pension levies, increased PRSI payments, pay increases forgone and, to a lesser extent, a reduction in overtime. The figures came as members of the Garda Representative Association (GRA) and Association of Garda Sergeants and Inspectors (AGSI) took part in a march in Dublin by the 24/7 Frontline Alliance over mooted cuts in remuneration.
Some 28 superintendents have retired this year compared to just two last year and a total of 36 from 2002 to 2008. At inspector and sergeant rank, retirements have more than trebled this year. Some 31 inspectors have retired, compared with 13 last year and 59 between 2002 and 2008. Some 170 sergeants have retired, compared with 52 last year and 357 between 2002 and 2008. At garda rank, retirements this year reached 464, compared to 174 last year and 128 in 2007.
Three assistant commissioners have retired so far this year, compared to just one over the past seven years. Some 12 chief superintendents have retired this year, the same total figure as all retirements from the rank over the past seven years.
The new Department of Justice figures include all members who retired or have applied to retire up to last Friday, November 6th. The figures include members retiring on age grounds and those retiring early.
Many members with the 30 years’ service needed to retire early are anxious to leave before the Budget because they fear their gratuity will be taxed. Currently, a gratuity of one and a half times a member’s finishing pensionable remuneration is paid, tax-free, on retirement.
Many vacancies created by retirements have not been filled because of the recruitment and promotion moratorium. Some exemptions have been made, allowing Garda Commissioner Fachtna Murphy use promotions to fill a small number of key posts.
The GRA, representing about 12,000 members, said 43 per cent of the force now has five years’ service or less, at a time when more experienced Garda managers than ever are leaving. AGSI is concerned that the rate of retirement is undermining policing.
Minister for Justice Dermot Ahern said more than 900 gardaí were attested this year, significantly higher than retirements.