asked the Minister for Justice if he intends granting day release facilities to members of the gardaí who are pursuing courses in law in third-level educational institutions in Ireland.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Garda Educational Facilities.
15.
(Cavan): The arrangements which apply in the Garda Síochána for the release of members of the force at public expense for higher-level education are identical with those applicable to other branches of the public service. The object of the arrangements is to meet particular needs in the force by providing training for specific posts requiring specialised knowledge, that is, training which cannot economically or adequately be provided as part of normal in-service training. Various other specialist courses are, of course, already provided for the Garda Síochána.
The needs of the force in regard to specialised courses are primarily a matter for assessment by the Commissioner. I am informed by him that, at present, these needs are being met, as far as specialised full-time university courses are concerned, by sending three members on such courses. One of these members is studying for a law degree. The members concerned were selected following the issue of circulars to the force inviting applications for these training opportunities. The matter will be reviewed in the light of experience.
I think it right, however, to draw attention to the fact that any question of affording special facilities to any particular members to pursue courses of their own choice raises serious questions of equity as between these members and other members whose duty arrangements may be affected as a result, and who, in addition, may later find themselves at a disadvantage.