A new uniform and dress code document released by Commissioner of the Guard Drew Harris last week has been widely praised by members of the force.
The policy aims to be more inclusive of people of diverse origins, taking into account the diverse religious beliefs and gender orientations of people.
Among the rules, there should be no tobacco, chewing gum or hands in the pockets.
The dress code says there should be no sneakers or jeans, shirts should be tucked in, top buttons should be closed, and long sleeves should not be rolled up.
Garda should not have visible tattoos on the face or neck, men’s hair should be short above the ear, women’s hair can be long at the collar or tied and tucked under the hat, never on the eyebrows or face, with no visible updos or ponytails and certainly “no unnatural color combinations”.
One of the most radical movements included in the document is the change in the rules surrounding the beard, with male members of the force now allowed to have a beard.
However, they need to grow them on their annual leave or off days and there are specific instructions on how to care for facial hair – including measurements.
Brendan OConnor, Vice-President of the Garda Representative Association, joined Andrea Gilligan on Live lunch to discuss the new code.
“It’s really just an evolution of a document that has been put in place, there are no major changes and in fact our members say it’s a bit of a liberalization,” he said. declared.
“The only issue that was really controversial was that a lot of the male members wanted to wear their beards and grow their beards and they weren’t able to.
“It’s strange for us to hear people say it’s so conservative when we see it as a small step forward on some issues.
Mr. OConnor added that Garda’s uniform and dress policy generally changes based on trends and fashion.
“Years ago we had problems with male members cutting their hair short because short hair was not in fashion, but now that wouldn’t be a problem anymore,” he said. Explain.
“I think it’s not uncommon for many workplaces to have guidelines, especially when wearing a uniform.
“The concept is uniform and the uniformity in itself suggests that people are alike and I guess that infringes on your right to self-expression, but it just comes with the territory.”
Commissioner Drew Harris inspects the new Garda during the attestation ceremony at Garda Training College, Templemore. Photo: Mark Condren / RollingNews.ie / PoolHe added that “a lot of Gardas take great pride in their appearance” and that it was important that their colleagues and the public saw them look good.
“It expresses trust in the audience and we would even see it on our own, it’s nice to stand next to someone you work with, who is clean and tidy and has that sense of professionalism,” said Mr. O’Connor said.
“So we certainly wouldn’t see a big problem with what was presented and that just puts a number of rules in place.
“They have always been there, there is nothing new in there except the beard and some references to certain religions and they are allowed to wear anything that conforms to their beliefs.
“But that is certainly not shocking.”
