‘Liberalization’ Garda dress code changes take effect

A new uniform and dress code document published by Guard Commissioner Drew Harris last week has been widely welcomed by members of the police force.

This policy aims to be more inclusive of people from various backgrounds, taking into account different religious beliefs and gender orientations.

Among the rules are no smoking, no chewing gum, or no putting your hands in your pockets.

The dress code says no runners or jeans, shirts must be tucked in, top buttons must be closed, and long sleeves must not be rolled up.

Guards must not have visible facial or neck tattoos, men’s hair must be short above the ears, women’s hair can be collar-length or tied and tucked under a hat, never above eyebrows or face, without a definite visible bun or ponytail.” no unnatural color combinations”.

One of the most radical moves included in the document was the change in the rules around beards, with male squad members now allowed to have a beard.

However, they must grow it on annual leave or on rest days and there are specific instructions on facial hair care – including measurements.

Brendan OConnor, vice president of the Association of Guard Representatives, joins Andrea Gilligan at Live Lunch to discuss the new code.

“It’s really just an evolution of an existing document, no major changes and actually, our members say it’s a bit of a liberalization,” he said.

“The only really contentious issue is a lot of the male members want to wear their beards and grow a beard and they can’t do it.

“It’s strange for us to hear people say this is so conservative when we see this as a bit of progress on some issues.

Mr OConnor added that the Garda’s uniform and dress policies generally change in response to trends and fashions.

“Years ago we had problems with male members cutting their hair short because short hair was not fashionable, but now it’s not a problem,” he explained.

“I think it’s not uncommon for many workplaces to have guidelines, especially when it comes to wearing a uniform.

“The concept is uniform and uniformity in itself suggests people look the same and I guess that violates your right to expression but that only comes with territory.”

Commissioner Drew Harris inspects the new Guards at the Endorsement Ceremony at Guard Training College, Templemore. Photo: Mark Condren/RollingNews.ie/Pool

He added that “many Guards take great pride in their appearance” and it is important that their colleagues and the public view their performances well.

“It really expresses trust in the public and we’ll even see for ourselves, it’s good to stand next to someone you work with who is neat and tidy and gives off a sense of professionalism,” O’Connor said.

“So of course we’re not going to see a big problem with what’s served and it’s just setting some rules.

“They’ve always been there, there’s nothing new in this other than a beard and some references to a certain religion and they’re allowed to wear whatever suits their beliefs.

“But of course that’s not surprising.”

Main image: New members at Guard College in Templemore. Photo: Mark Stedman/RollingNews.ie