SUPPORT for a march to the Dail by gardai seeking a pay commission is dwindling in the face of growing opposition particularly among senior ranks.
It is understood there is growing disquiet among Garda management about the demonstration, the first of its kind in the history of the State.
Senior officers are concerned that the demonstration will have to be stopped from approaching the Dail which is protected under statute from being "reset" by demonstrators while in session.
No directive about the demonstration has yet been issued by Garda Headquarters. However, it is unlikely that Gardai who are supposed to be on duty will be allowed attend without taking official leave.
Yesterday, the Association of Garda Sergeants and Inspectors (AGSI), which represents some 2,100 members and which had originally supported the demonstration, decided to pull out, citing concern that sufficient officers would not be available for duty if a major emergency occurred.
Garda superintendents had already decided not to participate.
One of the main supporters of the demonstration, GRA acting general secretary, Mr P.J. Stone, who said he would chain himself to the Dail railings until the Government conceded the demand for a pay commission, said he was disappointed at the AGSI decision but the demonstration would still go ahead.
The demonstration is now officially supported only by the Garda Representative Association (GRA) which can claim only the support of about 5,000 officers out of a total force of almost 11,000.