The vast majority of members in the Garda Representative Association have said they are willing to take industrial action over pay.

Of the 9,875 members balloted, 95 % (6,069) voted in favour with just 4.7% (300) voting against.

Two thirds (66%) of the membership voted.

GRA members were balloted before a new deal was proposed at the weekend.

It could see increments restored and €4,000 rent allowance for new recruits.

It is hoped the new agreement could avert any industrial action.

The Garda Representative Association’s Central Executive Committee will meet again tomorrow to consider pay, after failing to reach an agreement on whether to accept a proposal from the Department of Justice.

Rent allowance and pay increments would be restored under the deal, which is the result of months of negotiations.

President of the GRA, Ciaran O’Neill, said that so far there had been no decision on whether the deal was sufficient to avoid industrial action.

Mr O’Neill has said: “We surveyed our members to find out if there is an appetite for industrial action.

“The reason for this is because our members have done everything that was asked of them, and the reluctance of the Government to reward our patience has driven us towards this move.

“It is not surprising to hear that our members are willing to take some form of industrial action to see their pay and conditions restored.

“A draft agreement was concluded with the Department of Justice following negotiations.

“This was discussed by the Central Executive Committee yesterday. It was decided that our Special Delegate Conference tomorrow will discuss this draft agreement further and decide the best way to proceed.”

“The Garda Representative Association (GRA) is the voice of rank and file members of An Garda Síochána.

“The organisation, the only recognised association representing rank and file Gardaí, works to meet the needs of its members in areas of pay, welfare and conditions of employment.”