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'I suppose you thought you would get a consolation prize for losing your son,' - Garda claims bullying following tragic death
Summary
A grieving Garda sergeant, Sgt Laura Gaffey, has submitted a judicial review application to the High Court, alleging bullying and discrimination within An Garda Síochána following the death of her son. She claims that a superior officer made a discriminatory comment, stating, "I suppose you thought you would get a consolation prize for losing your son," after she applied for a new position following her child's death. Sgt Gaffey, who has 18 years of experience, alleges ongoing bullying by a supervising inspector since 2018, including criticism for taking maternity leave. She further claims that her complaints led to a data breach, with sensitive personal information being shared without her consent. Sgt Gaffey also alleges that she was intentionally undermined in her role, not provided with necessary equipment, and faced hostile treatment from another superior officer. Although an internal panel cleared the officer of bullying, Sgt Gaffey claims the process involved a breach of her privacy, including references to her mental health and the death of her son.
Who, what, where, when and why
What: Report matter: 'I suppose you thought you would get a consolation prize for losing your son,' - Garda claims bullying following tragic death. Procedural stage: hearing_or_decision
When:
- December 2024 Other
- June 2025 Other
- August 2025 Other
- 2026-05-12 Publication
Places mentioned
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