Charlie O'Connor
Question:395 Mr. O'Connor asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has plans to change the qualifying age for joining the Garda Síochána; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12875/03]
Written Answers. - Garda Recruitment.
The Garda Síochána (Admissions and Appointments) Regulations 1988, as amended, govern entry to the Garda Síochána and provide that applicants generally must be at least 18 years and under 26 years on the first day of the month on which the competition is advertised. The regulations provide for some extension to the upper age limit for applicants with certain specified service in the Defence Forces. Section 37 of the Employment Equality Act 1998 provides, inter alia, that those parts of the Act relating to discrimination on the age ground do not apply to employment in the Garda Síochána.
On 27 November 2000 Council Directive 2000/78/EC was adopted establishing a general framework for equal treatment in employment and occupation. The implementation of the directive will have implications for the age provision of the Employment Equality Act 1998. The Government has approved the drafting of legislation to amend the Employment Equality Act 1998 and the Equal Status Act 2000 to give effect to three EU equality directives, including Directive 2000/78/EC. Any implications for admission to the Garda Síochána will be considered in that context.
The Minister's objective is to have a fit, active and experienced force with an appropriate balance as regards the age profile.
Charlie O'Connor
Question:396 Mr. O'Connor asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his proposals to increase the number of women in the Garda Síochána; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12876/03]
A competition for the selection of Garda trainees was advertised in the national media in April 2003. Applications were sought from both men and women. The Garda Síochána is an equal opportunities employer and applies a policy of equal opportunity to its recruitment campaign.