Vol. 437 No. 6
283 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice the number of gardaí who have complied with the procedures and examinations pertaining to the rank of sergeant; the number of places likely to be filled; the degree to which it is expected to fill these positions in 1994; the developments likely in the event of surplus to requirements being available in 1994; and if she will make a statement on the matter.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that 1,851 gardaí are currently qualified, having passed a written examination, to apply for the rank of sergeant. In the most recent promotion competition, which commenced on 2 November last, 1,414 gardaí applied for promotion to sergeant rank. Preliminary interviews were carried out by regional interview boards and 315 gardaí have now been selected to go forward for final interview. It is anticipated that a total of approximately 150 vacancies will arise in the rank of Sergeant in 1994 and this number will be nominated on a panel in order of merit following the final interviews. All vacancies at the rank of Sergeant which arise up to 31 December, 1994 will be filled from this panel. The panel will expire on that date and members who have not been reached will have to reapply for promotion.
