SIOCHAIN - Autumn 2023 - Editorial

Why join the GSRMA?

So, what does it mean to be a member of the GSRMA and what do I get for my membership fee? This is a common question that arises when you ask someone, who is a non-member to join with us in the GSRMA.

Currently, we have over 6,300 members and this figure shows that there are a little over 2,500 retired members and widows out there who have not chosen (or maybe have not been asked as yet) to join with us in the GSRMA.

So firstly, I am to appeal to you to ASK the members you know are not part of the GSRMA to join with us and use our mantra – ní neart go cur le chéile – strength in numbers.

There is an Application Form in the rear of this magazine or ask your Branch Secretary for a few – they have a stock of Application Forms available.

So, to answer the pertinent question at the top of this editorial comment, the Editorial Board will outline the benefits to you briefly:

A network of 44 branches in all parts of Ireland and abroad;
Social events supported by a grant to branches for events/trips and social gatherings – increasing from 2024;
The grant of a stipend to branches to arrange monthly meetings and other occasions – increasing from 2024;
A New Member Grant being introduced from 2023 returning 50% of the first year’s fee to the branches for attracting new members;
Arranging Branch AGM’s and an Annual Delegate Meeting;
This great quarterly Síocháin magazine, prize draws and competitions each quarter;
One Free Tax and Pension Consultations every five years;
Group email and text alerts as well as an APP to circulate local events, deaths and items of interest;
Commemorative Events for fallen and deceased colleagues – ar dheis Dé go raibh na n-anamacha dílis.
Free Personal Accident Insurance for ALL members under 85 years of age;
Support following bereavement from GSRMA House and the local Branches;
Support from GSRMA House, Central Committee and Branch Committees as well as support from the Alliance of Retired Public Servants and the National Federation of Pensioners;
Lobbying of An Garda Síochána, Pensions Section as well as government departments – you will remember the successful legal battle regarding Rent Allowance in 2021, the Centenary Medal & Certificate award rather than a coin and the Cost-of-Living increases paid promptly last December;