Dáil Éireann debate -
Thursday, 13 May 1993

Vol. 430 No. 7

Written Answers. - Special Rewards to Gardaí.

Gay Mitchell

Question:

41 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Justice if she will consider the payment of special rewards by way of recognition to gardaí who have achieved third-level qualifications which assist the force in improving its expertise.

Minister for Justice (Mrs. Geoghegan-Quinn)

Members of the Garda Síochána may be awarded up to three additional incremental points on the salary scale on appointment to the Force in recognition of third level courses successfully completed.

Serving members are encouraged to further their education by pursuing third level educational courses. This is reflected in the amount of fees which are refunded and the fact that paid study leave is granted to those members who attend recognised third level courses. A total of £138,000 was paid out to members in respect of refund of fees in 1992. There are currently 259 gardaí known to be participating in third level courses. Many other members of the Force, at all levels, are involved in management, specialist, in-service and promotion courses. Members may be also be sent on other training courses both in Ireland and abroad as the Garda authorities consider appropriate.

The allocation for training for the Garda Síochána for 1993 is £180,000. There are no proposals to alter the present arrangements in this area.