A well-known former Donegal Garda Sgt has asked criminals to suspend their activities – until Garda top brass balance their books.
Christy Galligan was a well-known figure in Donegal courts for many years.
However, in a hard-hitting letter, Mr Galligan hits out at the ban on Garda overtime.
He asks how can the Gardai operate with one hand tied behind their back and still protect the vulnerable.
The following is his letter in full.
Dear Editor,
The recent ban on overtime, except in exceptional circumstances, by the Commissioner and his Assistants, must be of great benefit to the criminal fraternity and their cousins the dissident terrorists.
To advertise the fact through the media must be a godsend to those who wish to do wrong.
How can the Garda Síochana, with one hand tied behind its back, operate in such a cavalier fashion leaving the public vulnerable to attack because of this statement.
Doesn’t the Minister and his officials understand the need for extended overtime budgets in order that the force, which is battling on many fronts, has had to dip into their budget in order to provide security to VIPs and other State visitors as well as dealing with serious organised crime?
I wonder should we ask those who perpetrate crime or wish to undermine the State apparatus by subversion, to cancel their activities until they Garda Siíochana balances their books?
Your etc,
Christy Galligan,
Letterkenny,
Co. Donegal.
