asked the Minister for Justice if he will state in connection with the reported discharge of a number of recruits from the Garda Training Centre at Templemore, County Tipperary (a) the number so discharged, (b) the nature of the infringements alleged against the men concerned, and (c) what opportunity was given to them to defend themselves against such charges.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Discharge of Garda Recruits.
49.
Under the Garda Síochána (Appointments) Regulations the Commissioner may at any time dispense with the services of any member of the Force who is on probation if he considers that such member is not fitted, physically or mentally, to perform his duties as such member or is not likely to become an efficient and well-conducted Guard.
I have been informed by the Commissioner that, in the exercise of these powers, eight recruits have been discharged since the transfer of the Training Centre to Templemore. It would be contrary to practice and in some instances perhaps unfair to the individuals concerned to give the reasons for discharge. Before a decision was taken in any case, the recruit was afforded the opportunity of furnishing his observations and these, where received, were given full consideration.
Would the Minister indicate the number discharged in the Park during the previous year? Was it the same average?
This would seem to be a different matter.