Madam, - Justice Minister Michael McDowell proposes to introduce unpaid part-time volunteers as a back-up to An Garda Síochána. Where did this proposal originate? Not from An Garda Síochána, obviously. Its members have set their faces against the plan, though one would think they should have been first to be consulted.
Also, Mr McDowell says the issue was extensively discussed in the Dáil. Of all the debates there in recent times, little or nothing was heard of this publicly until some time before Christmas. Despite what the Minister says, the public had no say in the matter.
Is Mr McDowell sure he will have no difficulty in recruiting these volunteers? Their policing role is not going to be an easy one, with no pay, minimum training, just the Garda uniform (as a power symbol, perhaps). Most voluntary organisations are finding it difficult to attract new members. What makes it likely that these para-police will be easier to come by?
The history of our country is quite different from that of Britain, Canada or other countries quoted as examples of the successful operation of an auxiliary police force. Experience in this country, both North and South, suggests that the only acceptable form of policing is by full-time, trained professional officers. Policing is not a job for amateurs.
The best form of public involvement in law and order matters is by full co-operation with An Garda Síochána. Closer liaison between the public and and the gardaí is certainly needed, but Garda look-alikes are not the answer. - Yours, etc,
MICHAEL J KILGANNON,
Ballinasloe,
Co Galway.