An Garda Síochána has received over 100 complaints of harassment, bullying, or sexual harassment from members over the past five years.
More than 60% of the allegations were made by female officers, according to figures released under Freedom of Information (FOI), reports Breaking News.
The data also revealed a marked increase in the number of reports filed in the last two years.
In 2021 and 2022, there were 14 and 15 alleged incidents of harassment, bullying, or sexual harassment, respectively, reports Breaking News.
That figure rose to 20 in 2023 before jumping to 27 in 2024.
In just the first nine months of this year, An Garda Síochána has already recorded an additional 27 cases, reports Breaking News.
The vast majority of complaints — 92 out of 103 — related to bullying.
Two harassment allegations were made, both by female officers, reports Breaking News.
There were also nine allegations of sexual harassment, all reported by women within the force.
Of the 103 complaints made, 91 were referred for investigation, though An Garda Síochána did not specify what happened to the remaining 12 cases, reports Breaking News.
Currently, 26 investigations remain ongoing, while 11 complaints have been upheld.
A total of 39 cases were not upheld, and mediation was used to resolve seven, reports Breaking News.
Fourteen cases were withdrawn before investigations concluded, and six were not deemed to meet the criteria for harassment, bullying, or sexual harassment under Garda policies.
When asked about the figures, a Garda spokesman said the organisation does not comment on internal disciplinary matters but stressed that all complaints of bullying and harassment are taken seriously, reports Breaking News.
He stated: “The overall figures should be seen in the context of an organisation of over 14,000 gardaí. The Garda Commissioner has repeatedly stated on the public record that the vast majority of gardaí act in a highly disciplined and ethical manner. However, there are times, when in order to maintain public trust, it is necessary to suspend gardaí subject to disciplinary investigations,” reports Breaking News.
The spokesman added that an anti-bullying policy is in place and that all Garda personnel are encouraged to report any concerning behaviour so that it can be properly investigated and addressed, reports Breaking News.
Tell us your thoughts in the Facebook post and share this with your friends.
