Madam, - I agree wholeheartedly with both John Vaudin and Arthur Boland (June 7th and 8th) regarding policing in Dublin. For someone who frequents the city centre it is frustrating to see several on-duty gardaí congregating in a circle, conversing without a care in the world. This is something that can be seen regularly in or around Temple Bar and at the GPO, often late on Friday and Saturday nights when the Garda presence in the city centre is inadequate to deal with the problems that arise.
If I were to stand in the corridor during office hours chatting and laughing with colleagues while I was supposed to be working, I wouldn't last long in my job. But gardaí seem to act like this, as well as chatting on their mobile phones (often while driving) as they wish. I feel there is an increasing level of frustration about the attitude and effectiveness of the Garda. The recent video footage which appeared on the internet of a Garda in Co Cavan openly mocking a member of the public added insult to injury. - Yours, etc,
BRIAN KENNY, Glenvara Park, Dublin 16.