asked the Minister for Justice if he will indicate the number of persons proposed to be recruited for the Garda Síochána, the closing date for receiving applications, the number of eligible applicants and the date on which appointments will be made.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Garda Síochána Recruitment.
It is proposed to recruit about 300 men, in two groups of 150, between now and the 31st March, 1953. The last date for receiving applications was 28th February. Applications have been received from 1,093 men who appear to be eligible, but it cannot be said whether any applicant is qualified for appointment until he has passed the educational examination and is certified by the Garda surgeon to comply with the physical qualifications prescribed by the appointments regulations. I expect that the first group of recruits will be called up for training and enrolled about 1st September next and the second group about 1st March, 1953.