Dáil Éireann debate -
Tuesday, 6 Feb 1996

Vol. 461 No. 1

Written Answers - Garda Retirement Age.

Noel Treacy

Question:

193 Mr. N. Treacy asked the Minister for Justice if she will increase the retirement age for members of the Garda Síochána in order to ensure that a full complement of operational gardaí are available on the ground to counteract the serious criminal activities around the country at this time; the date on which this decision will be taken to increase the age limit; the effects, if any, this will have; the numbers to be effected; the duration of service remaining for these members; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [2605/96]

Minister for Justice (Mrs. Owen)

I understand that the representative associations for each of the ranks of the Garda Síochána up to the chief superintendent at present have claims before the Garda Conciliation Council to have the retirement age extended for their respective ranks. As the Deputy is aware, the scheme of conciliation and arbitration for the Garda Síochána provides the relevant machinery for the processing of such claims. Under the terms of the scheme, the proceedings of the council are confidential and it would not be appropriate for me to comment further.