Irish police overtime audit finds missing approvals and rising costs

The Comptroller and Auditor General (C&AG) reviewed An Garda Síochána’s €201 million annual overtime bill and found supporting paperwork unavailable in 45 of 67 sampled cases. The audit identified instances where officers were paid for more than 50 hours without senior approval and three cases of overpayments, with some payments unable to be examined because the police failed to arrange a meeting with auditors.

The report highlighted the absence of an overarching overtime policy, noting that overtime costs rose from €184 million in 2023 to €201 million in 2024, an 11 % increase. Access to the Garda’s internal roster system was denied, limiting the audit’s ability to verify overtime linked to illness or other absences. The C&AG recommended a review of policies and procedures to ensure accurate and consistent payroll processing. An Garda Síochána responded that extensive consultation has taken place and that new policy and procedures are expected to be implemented by 2026, with a focus on cost drivers in 2025.