Garda Sergeants and Inspectors say the easing of Covid-19 restrictions has made policing the emergency regulations more difficult and has caused confusion among frontline officers.
A survey by the association representing middle-ranking gardaí has also found that the majority of members felt garda management did not prioritise their welfare, particularly in relation to testing and protective equipment.
The AGSI said that while the public's response to policing has been largely positive, its members want spit hoods to be retained as standard equipment for frontline officers.
General Secretary Antoinette Cunningham said the Department of Justice and garda management must provide operational guidelines and appropriate training along with