From Patrols to Picket Lines. Episode 651

In this episode, Niall opens the lines to discuss the growing controversy around possible industrial action by rank-and-file gardaí. Their representative body has voted to withdraw voluntary overtime during the St Patrick’s festival amid an ongoing dispute over pay, allowances and what they say are long-promised agreements that haven’t been honoured. Garda representatives argue frustration has built up after repeated delays, lack of engagement from government departments and concerns about working conditions — while the move could create policing shortages at major public events and even raise questions ahead of Ireland’s upcoming EU Presidency commitments.

Niall asks callers the big question: Should essential public services like gardaí, nurses, teachers, transport workers and government staff have the same right to strike as other workers — or should limits apply because of the critical role they play? Listeners weigh up workers’ rights, public safety, fair pay, and how governments should handle disputes before they escalate.