Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 27 Jun 2000

Vol. 522 No. 2

Written Answers. - Garda Height Restrictions.

Seymour Crawford

Question:

401 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the plans he has to lower or abolish the height restrictions for females joining the Garda Síochána; if so, when he will make this change; the reason a committed young applicant should be turned down for being one quarter inch short of the present standard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18188/00]

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform (Mr. O'Donoghue)

I have recently established a Garda Síochána physical competence test review group and part of its remit will be to look at the validity of the present height requirements for both men and women and report back to me. After I have received its report, the question of submitting proposals for change in this regard to Government will be considered.