The Minister for Justice has said that any policy of non co-operation by gardaí with the new volunteer reserve force would be inconsistent with the Garda oath.
Speaking on RTE radio this afternoon, Mr Michael McDowell said that upon joining the force recruits made "a solemn oath to uphold the law."
Mr McDowell insisted that the oath was inconsistent with any policy of non-co-operation of lawful commands and directions and policies being directed by the commissioner.
He said that everyone in the force had made that choice and added that if they wanted to draw their salary as members of An Garda Síochana they could not "dine a la carteat that oath."
Mr McDowell warned last month that the reputation of An Garda Síochána may be damaged in the eyes of the public if members of the force embark on a policy of non-co-operation with the new Garda reserve force.
Recruitment to the new force is planned to begin in May.
The Garda Representative Association (GRA) and Association of Garda Sergeants and Inspectors (AGSI), are opposed to Mr McDowell's plans for the force.